Jewish Vegetarians of North America Newsletter

6/23/2009 JVNA Online Newsletter

2009-06-29T19:22:00.004-04:00

Shalom everyone,

This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:

1. Review/WE Are the Ones Who Can Help Save the World/YES We Can!

2. Tisha B'Av and Vegetarianism

2a. Jewish Leaders Call for “Global Healing Shabbat” on October 23-24

3. Humane Society of the US Has Many Summer Opportunities for Youngsters

4. NY Times Op-Ed Article Considers How Factory Farming Is Reducing the Quality of Our Food and Endangering Our Health and the Environment

5. World's Hungry Now Numbers One Billion People

5a. Press Release from EVANA Urges Veganism to Reduce Hunger Crisis

6. Michael Gregor, M.D. Releases New DVD on Nutrition

7. More Re the Possibility of a Fur-Free Israel

8. JVNA Advisor Roberta Kalechofsky Authors and Publishes New Book on Vivisection

9. Challenging Essay on the Need for Us to Change Our Lifestyles to Avoid a Climate Disaster

10. Flood of Appeals for Action Planned for Copenhagen December Conference on Global Warming

Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.

[Materials in brackets like this [ ] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]

Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of the kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observances, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in. Also, JVNA does not necessarily agree with all positions of groups whose views are included or whose events are announced in this newsletter.

As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.

Thanks,

Richard

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1. Review/WE Are the Ones Who Can Help Save the World/YES We Can!

[This message is SO important that I am repeating it here, even though it was just sent out as part of the special JVNA newsletter on global warming.]

Yes, yes we can! And it is beginning to look like if we don't, it is not going to happen.

Please consider the basics (more at the strategy section at JewishVeg.com/Schwartz).

* The major US report (discussed below on global warming threats to all sections of the US is just the latest indication that the world is rapidly heading toward an unprecedented catastrophe from global climate change and other environmental threats.

* There have been many reports and articles recently re the VERY significant effect that animal-based agriculture has on greenhouse gas emissions.

* What I have just learned recently (and plan to explore more and report on more) is that: Carbon dioxide effects is significantly reduced by aerosols that are also emitted from power plant and factories. Also, CO2 stays in the atmosphere for many years, so a reduction in CO2 emissions now would not have such a major effect. However, methane, largely emitted by cows and other animals, stays in the atmosphere for less than 15 years, during which time its impact is about 70 times as potent as CO2 in causing global warming. Hence, a major reduction in farmed animals, if we stopped breeding them, would have a very rapid and substantial impact on global warming.

Getting these messages out MUST become a major activity for each one of us, as well as much as possible of the vegetarian, animal rights, environmental and related movements. The future of humanity and all of creation depends on it.

So, what are you waiting for. :

Please start speaking to people, writing letters and articles, calling in to radio talk shows, promoting A SACRED DUTY and doing everything else you can to get these issues onto society's agenda.

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2. Tisha B'Av and Vegetarianism

I am planning to send my article on “Tisha B'Av and Vegetarianism” to the media soon. So, please take a look at the article at the holidays section of JewishVeg.com/Schwartz, and let me know if you have suggestions about it or other ways to promote vegetarianism through teachings related to Tisha B'Av. Thanks.

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2a. Jewish Leaders Call for “Global Healing Shabbat” on October 23-24

Forwarded message from rabbi Arthur Waskow, director of the Shalom Center:

[Please respond positively to this important initiative That JVNA had a role in getting off the ground by trying to arrange suitable activities in your community.]

Says an old Southern Black song: "God gave Noah the Rainbow Sign; No more water, the fire next time." In our generation, the Flood of Fire has come upon us in the climate crisis of global scorching and rising of the seas. We ourselves -- all of us -- must build the Ark to save humanity and all endangered life-forms. The Rainbow Sign calls us to this work of transformation.

A CALL TO OBSERVE SHABBAT NOACH, OCTOBER 23-24,
AS "GLOBAL CLIMATE HEALING SHABBAT"

This fall, Shabbat Noach -- when Jews around the world read the Torah portion about the Flood, Noah, the Ark, and the Rainbow -- comes on October 23-24, the day when a number of experts on the global climate crisis have called for world-wide actions to protect our planet from climate disaster.

This Torah passage lends itself to focusing on the danger of destruction of life on our planet, and also on the actions we need to take to prevent destruction and preserve the web of life in which the human race has emerged and created civilization.

So we --- both national and grass-roots leaders of the Jewish people -- urge all Jewish communities to observe Shabbat Noach as "Global Climate Healing Shabbat" with special prayers, sermons, Torah commentary/ midrash, songs, lectures, debates, panel discussions, resolutions, kiddushes, meals, nature-walks, stories for children, invitations to public officials and environmental activists, and other means of bringing Jewish commitment to bear on healing the earth from the dangers that over-use of fossil fuels is bringing upon us all.

We invite those of all religious, spiritual, and ethical traditions to join as well at that time of year.

Please register your intent to create a local event (even if you are just beginning to plan) in both these places: ---

http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/602/t/4180/event/index.jsp?event_KEY=50242

http://www.350.org/oct24

[Please forward this message to your friends and co-workers, and please support the work by clicking on the logo at the end of this message. Please see the statement we are appending below about the worldwide scheduled events and the key planners.]

The international observance of "Global Climate Healing Shabbat Noach" is a prelude to the crucial United Nations conference on the climate crisis scheduled for Copenhagen in December, 2009.

Almost daily reports of widespread droughts, floods, storms, wildfires and melting polar ice caps, mountain snowcaps, glaciers, and the forced migration of invasive species and diseases into new territories all cry out to us for action. Passage after passage of Torah and secular Jewish writings cry out to us that as Jews we must act more vigorously, not only in private and communal households but in shaping public policy to celebrate and heal the web of life.

We urge our own members and all Jews to contact local rabbis, Jewish educators and other scholars and communal leaders to plan "Global Climate Healing Shabbat" events that will make this Shabbat (and if you wish the days just before and after it) the beginning of a truly transformative time.

We call on Jews not only to green our own households and communal buildings but also to work for major public policy changes away from fossil fuels and toward shifts in energy use, transportation, food production, housing, and other dimensions of our society.

Jewish tradition about caring for the poor also guides us to make sure that industries and regions especially affected must get help from the whole society, and that poor countries also get special help to develop on a non-fossil path and to ward off the destructive effects of climate change.

We hope the continuing momentum of Global Climate Healing Shabbat will help the December UN conference in Copenhagen make the decisions necessary to greatly reduce threats to our climate.

Please register your intentions today in both these places: ---

http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/602/t/4180/event/index.jsp?event_KEY=50242

http://www.350.org/oct24

Signed (partial list):

Rabbi Steve Gutow, president of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs and a leader in the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life.

Rabbi David Saperstein, director, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism.

Nancy Ratzan, President, National Council of Jewish Women.

Rabbi Arthur Waskow, Director, and Arlene Goldbard, President, for The Shalom Center, which initiated this Call.

Nigel Savage, director, for Hazon.

Debra Kolodny, director, for ALEPH: Alliance for Jewish Renewal.

Richard Schwartz, president, for Jewish Vegetarian Society of North America.

Dr. Michael Kagan and Rabbi Julian Sinclair for Jewish Climate Initiative, Israel.

Nili Simhai, for the Teva Learning Center.

Jakir Manela for Kayam Farm at Pearlstone Center.

Susan Kaplan, Chair, for Southern Arizona COEJL.

Ellen Bernstein, founder of Shomrei Adamah; author, Birthday of the Trees and The Splendor of Creation

Rabbi Nina Beth Cardin, Director, Baltimore Jewish Environmental Network.

Rabbi Amy Eilberg, St. Paul Interfaith Network.

Evan Eisenberg, author, The Ecology of Eden.

Dr. Mirele B. Goldsmith, Environmental Activist

Jo Ellen Green Kaiser, Editor, Zeek

Rabbis Sharon Kleinbaum and Ayelet Cohen, Congregation Beth Simchat Torah, NYC, a Green Menorah Covenant congregation.

Rabbi Peter Knobel, Beth Emet, Evanston IL; past president, Central Conference of American Rabbis

Barbara Lerman-Golomb, Founder, Barbara Wow Workshop; Director Educaton and Outreach, Hazon; former ED, COEJL

Rabbi Mordechai Liebling, Board, The Shalom Center

Rabbi Ellen Lippmann, Kolot Chayeinu/Voices of Our Lives, Brooklyn; Board, The Shalom Center

Rabbi Thomas A. Louchheim, Tucson

Rabbi Richard A. Marker, Co-chair, Board of World Religious Leaders

Rabbi Yocheved Mintz, President, Ohalah/ Association of Rabbis for Jewish Renewal

Rabbi Brant Rosen, Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation of Evanston IL. a Green Menorah Covenant congregation.

Max Samson, Milwaukee; Board of The Shalom Center

Lindsey Paige Savoie, Director, Shomrei Adamah of Greater Washington

Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb, Adat Shalom, Washington area; Greater Washington Interfaith Power & Light, Board of The Shalom Center

Reb Zalman Hiyya Schachter-Shalomi, Boulder

Rabbi David Shneyer, Am Kolel, Washngton DC area; past president, Ohalah.

Daniel Sieradski, director, Jew It Yourself.

Rabbi Margot Stein, composer/lyricist, Guarding the Garden

Rabbi Warren Stone, Temple Emanuel, Kensington MD, a Green Menorah Covenant congregation; co-chair, environment committee of the Central Conference of American Rabbis.

Rabbi Shawn Zevit, Director of Outreach and Tikkun Olam, Jewish Reconstructionist Federation

Daniel Ziskin, PhD, Climate Scientist and President, Jews Of The Earth

Information on Jewish teachings on environmental stewardship and sustainability can be found at the websites of -----

The Shalom Center 's Green Menorah Covenant

Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism http://www.urj.org/green

Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life (COEJL) http://www.coejl.org

Canfei Nesharim http://www.canfeiNesharim.org,

Hazon http://www.hazon.org

Teva Learning Center http://tevalearningcenter.org

Adamah Fellowship http://www.isabellafreedman.org/adamah

Jewish Farm School http://www.jewishfarmschool.org

Jewish Vegetarians of North America

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Major Global Warming-Related Events Planned for October 24, 2009

http://www.350.org/invitation

Dear World,

This is an invitation to help build a movement--to take one day and use it to stop the climate crisis.

On [Saturday] October 24, we will stand together as one planet and call for a fair global climate treaty. United by a common call to action, we'll make it clear: the world needs an international plan that meets the latest science and gets us back to safety.

This movement has just begun, and it needs your help.

Here's the plan: we're asking you, and people in every country on earth, to organize an action in their community on October 24. There are no limits here--imagine bike rides, rallies, concerts, hikes, festivals, tree-plantings, protests, and more. Imagine your action linking up with thousands of others around the globe. Imagine the world waking up.

If we can pull it off, we'll send a powerful message on October 24: the world needs the climate solutions that science and justice demand.

It's often said that the only thing preventing us from tackling the climate crisis quickly and equitably is a lack of political will. Well, the only thing that can create that political will is a unified global movement--and no one is going to build that movement for us. It's up to regular people all over the world. That's you.

So register an event in your community for October 24, and then enlist the help of your friends. Get together with your co-workers or your local environmental group or human rights campaign, your church or synagogue or mosque or temple; enlist bike riders and local farmers and young people. All over the planet we'll start to organize ourselves.

With your help, there will be an event at every iconic place on the planet on October 24-from America's Great Lakes to Australia's Great Barrier Reef--and also in all the places that matter to you in your daily lives: a beach or park or village green or town hall.

If there was ever a time for you to get involved, it's right now. There are two reasons this year is so crucial.

The first reason is that the science of climate change is getting darker by the day. The Arctic is melting away with astonishing speed, decades ahead of schedule. Everything on the planet seems to be melting or burning, rising or parched.

And we now have a number to express our peril: 350.

NASA's James Hansen and a team of other scientists recently published a series of papers showing that we need to cut the amount of carbon in the atmosphere from its current 387 parts per million to 350 or less if we wish to "maintain a planet similar to that on which civilization developed."

No one knew that number a year ago-but now it's clear that 350 might well be the most important number for the future of the planet, a north star to guide our efforts as we remake the world. If we can swiftly get the planet on track to get to 350, we can still avert the worst effects of climate change.

The second reason 2009 is so important is that the political opportunity to influence our governments has never been greater. The world's leaders will meet in Copenhagen this December to craft a new global treaty on cutting carbon emissions.

If that meeting were held now, it would produce a treaty that would be woefully inadequate. In fact, it would lock us into a future where we'd never get back to 350 parts per million-where the rise of the sea would accelerate, where rainfall patterns would start to shift and deserts to grow. A future where first the poorest people, and then all of us, and then all the people that come after us, would find the only planet we have damaged and degraded.

October 24 comes six weeks before those crucial UN meetings in Copenhagen. If we all do our job, every nation will know the question they'll be asked when they put forth a plan: will this get the planet back on the path to 350?

This will only work with the help of a global movement-and it's starting to bubble up everywhere. Farmers in Cameroon, students in China, even World Cup skiers have already helped spread the word about 350. Churches have rung their bells 350 times; Buddhist monks have formed a huge 350 with their bodies against the backdrop of Himalayas. 350 translates across every boundary of language and culture. It's clear and direct, cutting through the static and it lays down a firm scientific line.

On October 24, we'll all stand behind 350--a universal symbol of climate safety and of the world we need to create. And at the end of the day, we'll all upload photos from our events to the www.350.org website and send these pictures around the world. This cascade of images will drive climate change into the public debate--and hold our leaders accountable to a unified global citizenry.

We need your help-the world is a big place and our team is small. Our crew at 350.org will do everything we can to support you, providing templates for banners and press releases, resources to spread the word, and tools to help you build a strong local climate action group. And our core team is always just a phone call or e-mail away if you need some support.

This is like a final exam for human beings. Can we muster the courage, the commitment, and the creativity to set this earth on a steady course before it's too late? October 24 will be the joyful, powerful day when we prove it's possible.

Please join us and register your local event today. Click to both --

http://www.350.org/oct24

http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/602/t/4180/event/index.jsp?event_KEY=50242

[Please forward this message to your friends and co-workers.]

Onwards,
Bill McKibben - Author and Activist- USA
Vandana Shiva - Physicist, Activist, Author - India
David Suzuki - Scientist, Author, Activist - Canada
Bianca Jagger - Chair of the World Future Council - UK
Tim Flannery - Scientist, Author, Explorer -Australia
Bittu Sahgal - Editor of Sanctuary magazine - India
Andrew Simmons - Environmental Advocate, St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Christine Loh - Environmental Advocate and Legislator - Hong Kong

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3. Humane Society of the US Has Many Summer Opportunities for Youngsters

Forwarded message from HSUS:

A Summer of "Paws"-itive Service

The start of summer can mean long idle days for young people. Or, it can mean time for summer camps, animal shelter collections, work on wildlife habitats, and teaching others to be kind. Use our summer project ideas and award-winning Mission: Humane service-learning projects to get kids to roll up their sleeves for animals. And be sure to stop by our new KIND News Online Summer Camp for rainy day activities, hot car warning fliers, and more!

To see how young people are making a difference for animals all around the country, meet our 2009 KIND Kid and Humane Teen of the Year.

For more ideas to help kids get started, check out the 100 Ways to Be Kind to Animals Teaching Poster.

For more information on these possibilities, please visit the Humane Society of the US web site.

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4. NY Times Op-Ed Article Considers How Factory Farming Is Reducing the Quality of Our Food and Endangering Our Health and the Environment

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/21/opinion/21kristof.html?th&emc=th

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5. World's Hungry Now Numbers One Billion People

FAO newsroom - www.fao.org/newsroom/

FAONEWSRELEASE 09/58

Contact:

Erwin Northoff
Media Relations (Rome)
(+39) 06 570 53105
(+39) 348 252 3616
erwin.northoff@fao.org

1.02 billion people hungry

One sixth of humanity undernourished - more than ever before

Rome, 19 June 2009 - World hunger is projected to reach a historic high in 2009 with 1 020 million people going hungry every day, according to new estimates published by FAO today.

The most recent increase in hunger is not the consequence of poor global harvests but is caused by the world economic crisis that has resulted in lower incomes and increased unemployment. This has reduced access to food by the poor, the UN agency said.

"A dangerous mix of the global economic slowdown combined with stubbornly high food prices in many countries has pushed some 100 million more people than last year into chronic hunger and poverty," said FAO Director-General Jacques Diouf. "The silent hunger crisis - affecting one sixth of all of humanity - poses a serious risk for world peace and security. We urgently need to forge a broad consensus on the total and rapid eradication of hunger in the world and to take the necessary actions."

"The present situation of world food insecurity cannot leave us indifferent," he added.

Poor countries, Diouf stressed, "must be given the development, economic and policy tools required to boost their agricultural production and productivity. Investment in agriculture must be increased because for the majority of poor countries a healthy agricultural sector is essential to overcome poverty and hunger and is a pre-requisite for overall economic growth."

"Many of the world's poor and hungry are smallholder farmers in developing countries. Yet they have the potential not only to meet their own needs but to boost food security and catalyse broader economic growth. To unleash this potential and reduce the number of hungry people in the world, governments, supported by the international community, need to protect core investments in agriculture so that smallholder farmers have access not only to seeds and fertilisers but to tailored technologies, infrastructure, rural finance, and markets," said Kanayo F. Nwanze, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

"For most developing countries there is little doubt that investing in smallholder agriculture is the most sustainable safety net, particularly during a time of global economic crisis," Nwanze added.

"The rapid march of urgent hunger continues to unleash an enormous humanitarian crisis. The world must pull together to ensure emergency needs are met as long term solutions are advanced," said Josette Sheeran, Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme.

Hunger on the rise

Whereas good progress was made in reducing chronic hunger in the 1980s and the first half of the 1990s, hunger has been slowly but steadily on the rise for the past decade, FAO said. The number of hungry people increased between 1995-97 and 2004-06 in all regions except Latin America and the Caribbean. But even in this region, gains in hunger reduction have been reversed as a result of high food prices and the current global economic downturn (see background note).

This year, mainly due to the shocks of the economic crisis combined with often high national food prices, the number of hungry people is expected to grow overall by about 11 percent, FAO projects, drawing on analysis by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Almost all of the world's undernourished live in developing countries. In Asia and the Pacific, an estimated 642 million people are suffering from chronic hunger; in Sub-Saharan Africa 265 million; in Latin America and the Caribbean 53 million; in the Near East and North Africa 42 million; and in developed countries 15 million in total.

In the grip of the crisis

The urban poor will probably face the most severe problems in coping with the global recession, because lower export demand and reduced foreign direct investment are more likely to hit urban jobs harder. But rural areas will not be spared. Millions of urban migrants will have to return to the countryside, forcing the rural poor to share the burden in many cases.

Some developing countries are also struggling with the fact that money transfers (remittances) sent from migrants back home have declined substantially this year, causing the loss of foreign exchange and household income. Reduced remittances and a projected decline in official development assistance will further limit the ability of countries to access capital for sustaining production and creating safety nets and social protection schemes for the poor.

Unlike previous crises, developing countries have less room to adjust to the deteriorating economic conditions, because the turmoil is affecting practically all parts of the world more or less simultaneously. The scope for remedial mechanisms, including exchange-rate depreciation and borrowing from international capital markets for example, to adjust to macroeconomic shocks, is more limited in a global crisis.

The economic crisis also comes on the heel of the food and fuel crisis of 2006-08. While food prices in world markets declined over the past months, domestic prices in developing countries came down more slowly. They remained on average 24 percent higher in real terms by the end of 2008 compared to 2006. For poor consumers, who spend up to 60 percent of their incomes on staple foods, this means a strong reduction in their effective purchasing power. It should also be noted that while they declined, international food commodity prices are still 24 percent higher than in 2006 and 33 percent higher than in 2005.

The 2009 hunger report (The State of Food Insecurity in the World, SOFI) will be presented in October.

Online news from FAO: http://www.fao.org/newsroom/

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5a. Press Release from EVANA Urges Veganism to Reduce Hunger Crisis

Forwarded message from EVANA (European Vegetarian and Animals News Alliance:

FAO warning: '1.020 million people going hungry every day'

Common Press Release

23 June 2009

In spite of various important international treaties with the noble intent of affirming everyone's right to food, we are now being confronted with the stunning fact that one sixth of all of humanity is starving.
This catastrophe is an indication that in our global village something has obviously slipped out of the balance of ethics and reason:

- Hunger and malnutrition are killing nearly six million children each year, whilst for their peers in other parts of the world meat-laden diets lead to obesity and a wide variety of diseases, thus shortening their life expectancies and putting increasing burdens on public health systems;

- The inefficient meat trade expansion continues to spiral out of control, but still decision makers like the FAO continue their efforts to accommodate the gruesome trend even at great environmental cost to soil, air and water, instead of trying to halt it, or at least slow it down.

-Social justice is compromised by the fact that even when confronted with so much misery, huge shares of available food stuffs (even 95% of soy) are still siphoned off for farm animals.

FAO Director-General Jacques Diouf: "The present situation of world food insecurity cannot leave us indifferent."

Indeed, it cannot. Sidelining this drama has been going on for far too long.

However, it is somewhat surprising that the FAO press release avoids addressing the impact which around 56 billion animals, fed to be slaughtered worldwide each year, are representing for the problem of food security.

Where is the social justice?

Especially in times of great suffering, decency calls for a thorough and objective investigation of all possible means suitable to lighten the burden, and that in interest of all, poor and wealthy alike. After all, when starving people refuse to carry their load quietly any longer and instead decide to shatter systems of injustice, the resulting social unrest may bring danger and hardship for everyone.

Vegetarianism offers a multitude of benefits and this compassionate lifestyle represents also the ideal way to ease the hunger drama. A meatless diet or even a reduction in meat consumption will quickly free an enormous amount of food resources: If Americans reduced their intake of meat by merely 10%, 100,000,000 people could be fed!

Each vegetarian is a living proof of solidarity and a silent hero who contributes greatly to the new fair and compassionate society we so urgently need.

Signed:
AgireOra Network
www.agireora.org
Italy

Association Végétarienne de France
www.vegetarisme.fr/
France

Centro Vegetariano
www.centrovegetariano.org
Portugal

Edinburgh the Fur-Free City
www.edinburghfurfreecity.co.uk
UK

European Vegetarian and Animal News Alliance (EVANA)
www.evana.org
International

European Vegetarian Union
www.euroveg.eu
International

Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA)
www.JewishVeg.com
USA

Romanian Vegetarian Society
www.svr.ro
Romania

SHARAN
www.sharan-india.org
India

Swiss Union for Vegetarianism
www.vegetarismus.ch/
Switzerland

Vegan Society Austria
www.vegan.at
Austria

Veg Climate Alliance
http://vegclimatealliance.org/
International

Vegetarierbund Deutschland e.V. (VEBU)
www.vebu.de
Germany

Contact: info@evana.org
URL: http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=45849&lang=en

References:

- FAO: One sixth of humanity undernourished - more than ever before: www.fao.org/news/story/en/item/20568/icode/
- Every six seconds a child dies of hunger: www.earthsave.org/environment.htm
- If Americans reduced their intake of meat by merely 10%, 100,000,000 people could be fed: www.earthsave.org/environment.htm

Petition Food vs Feed: “In the name of humanity, a responsible global community can no longer afford to invest 7-16 kg of grain or soya beans, up to 15,500 liters of water, and 323 m2 of grazing land in the production of just one kilo of beef for those with the means to pay for it.” http://www.evana.org/UN/index.php?lang=en

Please sign the petition: http://www.evana.org/UN/sign.php?lang=en

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6. Michael Gregor, M.D. Releases New DVD on Nutrition

I'm so excited to announce that the newest volume of my annual Latest in Nutrition series is being released next week! As usual, I scoured the world's scholarly literature on clinical nutrition so you don't have to, bringing together the most interesting, practical, and groundbreaking science published
over the last 12 months on how best to feed ourselves and our families to prevent, treat, and even reverse chronic disease.

I found so much great stuff this year that it wouldn't even fit on one DVD! So, Latest in Nutrition 2009 is being released as a special 2 DVD set, with more than 3 hours of material split into more than 100 chapters.

Here is just a small sampling of the questions I address this year:

Does soy really lower sperm counts?
Does tofu cause dementia?
Is cat companionship or dog companionship linked to human lymphoma risk?
Should pregnant women avoid peanuts?
Should one really not eat the bruised parts of apples?
Which artificial sweetener is best?
What's the latest on chocolate and coffee?
Did they really find benzene in soda?
Did they really find mercury in corn syrup?
Do cell phones really give you brain tumors?
Which supermarket fruit should be avoided?
Are there dangerous herbal teas other than yerba mate?
What are the benefits and risks of moderate alcohol consumption?
What's the #1 cancer fighting vegetable?
Which is worse: sugar or corn syrup?
How does one get nutrition without calories?
Is white bread harmful?
Avocados: Friend or Foe?
Which plastics should be avoided?
What did the first ever study of thousands of vegans find?
What disease did vegetarians recently get named after them?
Why should one avoid fat-free dressings?
Whose health is unaffected by egg consumption?
Which fast food chicken item was found to have the most carcinogens?
Can fecal residues be detected on retail chicken products?
How often were restaurant workers found to wash their hands?
What's this about a sexually transmitted fish toxin?
How common are brain parasites in the U.S. meat supply?
What effect does maternal fish consumption have on the fetus?
Which food has the highest aluminum contamination? Highest arsenic contamination?
Is gluten (seitan) really bad for you?
What are the best and worst studies of the year?
Can cancer be reversed through diet?
How can the #1 cause of death be essentially eliminated?
Are there more hormones in skim milk or whole milk?
How can one avoid the consumption of banned pesticides like DDT?
Should people take vitamin C supplements? Multivitamin supplements? Iron supplements? Antioxidant supplements?

For a complete listing of chapters and to place an order, go to:

http://www.DrGreger.org/DVDs

As always, all the proceeds I receive from the sale of my DVDs go to charity.

Enjoy!
-Michael

Michael Greger, M.D.
Director, Public Health and Animal Agriculture
The Humane Society of the United States
2100 L St., N.W.
Washington, DC 20037
direct line: (202) 676-2361

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7. More Re the Possibility of a Fur-Free Israel

Forwarded message:

ISRAEL TO GO FUR FREE? IT'S A GOOD POSSIBILITY!

A FUR FREE ISRAEL?

We hope so!

Israel has created a precedent by submitting the world's first nationwide bill to “Prohibit Fur Trade" anywhere inside Israel.

Knesset member Nitzan Horowitz proposed on March, 18th 2009 a bill to prohibit the fur industry in its entirety, including all importation, production and/or sales in Israel. This historic bill will be discussed for the first time on July 22nd at the government's office.

So far, the only Israeli group that shows concerns about this bill is the Ultra-Orthodox MKs as they fear that such ban would deeply affect their "shtreimel trade." However, there is no religious opposition to synthetic streimels which means that there's virtually no opposition for us to see a FUR FREE ISRAEL!

The coalition heading this campaign asks for worldwide support to help this bill become law. If you are an organization, please submit a letter of support on behalf of your group. If an individual, your letter is just as welcome.

Please submit your letter of support on this http://www.antifurcoalition.org/support-bill-int.html

Let's help Israel go fur free so we'll have some hope to see this trend spread throughout the world!

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8. JVNA Advisor Roberta Kalechofsky Authors and Publishes New Book on Vivisection

[Kudos, Roberta on this new achievement. Your continuous efforts to promote vegetarianism and related causes has been invaluable and MUCH appreciated.]

Forwarded message:

The Poet-Physician and The Healer-Killer
Vivisection and The Emergence of Å Medical Technocracy

Roberta Kalechofsky, Ph.D.

ISBN: 978-00-916288-55-6 Paperback
Pages 230 5-1/2 X 8-1/2
Price: $22.00 Publication Date: Oct. 1, 2009

While there are many books on animal research, The Poet-Physician and the Healer-Killer makes three unique contributions to this subject.

The historic context of the book is from the time of the poet John Keats who, trained as a doctor, sought a definition of medical practice based on sympathy, at the time of the Nazi doctors and traces their use of human beings for experimental purposes to the rise of academic vivisection in the Victorian age. The book reveals how the practice of vivisection was conceived as the philosophical metaphor for the "Enlightenment," for science as "a male discipline," for progress, and for the conquest of nature, as articulated by one of its great practitioners, Claude Bernard.

Ms. Kalechofsky also illuminates how the merger of the Woman's Movement in the Edwardian era, with the Anti-vivisection movement gave the medical profession its propaganda platform of the Anti-vivisectionists as "little old women in sneakers."
Vivisection became a symbol for machismo and the denunciation of sentiment as a female weakness.

Finally, the dispute between the vivisectionists and the "Sanitarians, " as Environmentalists were called in the 19 century, and the victory of the vivisectionists has had enormous--and disastrous--implications for our present-day health care problems.

Told in a blend of autobiography and scholarship, the author has tackled subtle historical problems with wit, humor---and anguish, and has captured the colorful personalities of the men and women who led the battle against vivisection in the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

Roberta Kalechofsky, Ph.D., fiction writer, speaker, essayist, publisher.
Micah Publications (www.micahbooks.com) is the source for Jewish vegetarian and animal rights books. See website for these and other titles.

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9. Challenging Essay on the Need for Us to Change Our Lifestyles to Avoid a Climate Disaster

Forwarded essay by Margaret Swedish, who regularly send out such messages.

Live differently - we'd better, and in a hurry

Posted: 17 Jun 2009 02:31 PM PDT

Fostering Ecological Hope
Today from Margaret Swedish:

If you want, and in a hurry.

If you want a liveable world, if you want your kids to grow up not in catastrophe but rather in difficulty that contains hope for a future, live differently -

-if you want, as we said in our previous post, and in a hurry, if you are listening to our scientists.

Blue Marble - NASA Earth Observatory

I just returned from the EarthSpirit Rising gathering at Xavier University in Cincinnati and it was a jolt of adrenaline. It is comforting and invigorating to be with a couple hundred people who 'see' the world as it is - the magnificence of creation, and the very real threat we humans pose to the manifestation of creation that is our beautiful Earth.

I am certain that I am not the only participant who found it unsettling to return from this gathering just in time for the release of the new multi-agency report on climate change and its impacts on the U.S. from the United States Global Change Research Program, research paid for with our tax money. Thank you, government, for using my tax money in such a wise and responsible way. Is this the report that will finally snap us into action?

NBC did a terrific story on this on last evening's Nightly News and there have been a few articles in the newspapers. But this is what I fear will happen - one more time, this alarming news will get buried, simply disappear from headlines and our national consciousness. Recent polls in fact show that US Americans are less and less concerned about what greenhouse gases are doing to warm the atmosphere and the catastrophes that await us if we continue business as usual. As this report shows, sadly, these changes have already begun.

See, in this project - articulating a spirituality of ecological hope, and in the spirit of our parent organization, the Center for New Creation - we are pretty certain, as the evidence of my generation indicates, that we will not act in time to prevent disruptive climate change. After all, we were the generation that created Earth Day and wrote all those books and read all those studies about all the things that were going to unfold on this planet - overpopulation, energy crises, acid rain, toxic pollution, global warming - and then became just about the biggest consuming generation in the history of the human species.

We simply do not want to believe what is happening to this planet. It remains abstract and seemingly distant, or too big a notion to wrap our minds around. Or worse, we don't want it to interfere with our upscale lifestyles and expectations. In fact, we had all the information we needed more than three decades ago to keep us from coming to this moment.

Projected 100-degrees days this century - US Global Change Research Program

So here is yet another group of scientists, some of them among our most brilliant, like John P. Holdren, Obama's chief science advisor, and Jane Lubchenco, new administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), telling us the situation is dire, serious, the need for action immediate, urgent - and then? Are we being called to action yet from within our political culture? Already the coal industry is talking about how we dare not move too quickly for fear of grave economic consequences. Are you kidding me? We are facing ecological catastrophe!!! Read about their lobbying efforts here.

Once again, we are being told that things are bad, but there is still time to keep the worst from happening; and once again we are being told that this requires, however, big changes right now. When do these messages finally come together in a critical mass that wakes us from our malaise?

We are a species out of touch with the danger we are in within our own habitats.

In a presentation at EarthSpirit Rising, David Orr, Distinguished Professor of Environmental Studies and Politics at Oberlin, one of the keynote speakers, said that it is “too late to avoid trauma,” but “it may or may not be too late to prevent the worst” from happening.

On my way back I stopped to visit my niece who is about to give birth to a little girl who will be my godchild. The stakes for me are about to get a whole lot bigger. I figure one of my most important responsibilities to this child will be to offer her every opportunity to fall in love with the natural world, and then to work like crazy to preserve it for her.

So, friends, I am embedding yesterday's press conference below and urge you to take time to watch it (for subscribers, if the embed doesn't work, here's the YouTube link). And I encourage you to look at the report paid for by us - it is very accessible, well done visually, quite readable. It has sections devoted to how climate change will face specific regions of the country, so you will find stuff all about where you live. In my case here in Wisconsin, what they describe certainly matches our experience in recent years.

Then, here again comes our call to action:

Please, please, be part of the awakening, be part of the urgency, be part of the truth-telling, be part of the 'new creation,' the one where we learn once more how to live on this planet - in time to keep it a beautiful planet for my godchild and all the others of her generation-to-come.

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10. Flood of Appeals for Action Planned for Copenhagen December Conference on Global Warming

[Veg Climate Alliance and other groups are planning ways to get dietary changes on the Copenhagen conference agenda. If you are planning to attend and would like to represent JVNA, please let me know. Many thanks to vegetarian activist Carolin Gschwim for her wonderful initiatives re this event.]

The Flood is coming

Join Friends of the Earth International on December 12, 2009 and help 'flood' Copenhagen in a call for climate justice.

From December 7-18, 2009, the 15th UN climate conference (COP-15) will take place in Copenhagen, Denmark. Here, governments from around the world will meet to discuss efforts to tackle global warming.

Friends of the Earth International will also be there. We're inviting people to come to Copenhagen to help build pressure on governments to find fair solutions to the climate crisis. We believe that rich industrialised countries, which have historically emitted the most greenhouse gases, must agree to urgent and dramatic cuts in their emissions starting NOW.

This is absolutely fundamental if we are to prevent the most devastating effects of global warming on the world - in particular on the world's most impoverished and vulnerable people. Our message to the negotiators is that the historical climate debt to the Global South must be repaid.

The talks will also be attended by lobbyists from the World Bank and industry. We need to make sure that any agreement that might be reached doesn't end up promoting the interests of big business, while robbing people of their land and their rights to survival.

An agreement that allows rich countries to continue polluting by funding unsustainable offset projects in the Global South, and which relies on false solutions such as mega dams, nuclear power, carbon capture and storage and monoculture tree plantations, must be rejected. The World Bank must not be allowed to control climate finance. Forests must not become commodities to be traded as part of global carbon markets.

People can influence our governments and hold them to account. That's why Friends of the Earth International is organising the 'Flood for Climate Justice' in Copenhagen on Saturday December 12, 2009. In the middle of the two weeks of negotiations, we will 'flood' through the streets of Copenhagen with our demands for climate justice.

We're encouraging as many people as possible to come to Copenhagen, using the most environmentally friendly transport they can, to be part of a movement for climate justice. The event will be the high point in a year of cyber-actions, street actions and campaigning from Friends of the Earth groups around the world.

We invite everyone who shares our vision to join the exciting spectacle on December 12, when we will use our bodies and our voices to create a message that decision-makers and lobbyists cannot ignore:

The Flood Is Coming!

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6/14/2009 JVNA Online Newsletter

2009-06-15T22:52:00.008-04:00

Shalom everyone,

This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:

1. I Am Scheduled to Speak at SUMMERFEST 2009

2. Interested in Representing JVNA at an Upcoming Vegetarian or Animal Rights Conference?

2a. Message to Vegetarian Activists re Getting Global Warming Onto Society's Agenda

3. Virginia Working On Special License Plate for Vegetarians & Vegans

4. Environmental Programs Scheduled in Israel

5. Correction

6. Canfei Nesharim [Orthodox Jewish Environmental Group] Seeking Financial Support

7. Hakol Chai Demonstrators Block Tel Aviv City Hall to Protest Horse Abuse

8. Global Climate Actions Related to the Copenhagen Global Warming Conference

8a. Teleconference Featuring Noted Author/Speaker Will Tuttle Scheduled

9. More Destructive Storms Projected for a Warming World

10. MIT Study: Global Warming Will Likely Be Worse Than Thought

11. Expanded Coalitions Support U.S. Climate Bill

12. GreenFaith Fellowship Program Seeks Applicants

13. Israel Taking Actions Against Global Warming

14. Update Re Possible Fur ban in Israel

15. Israeli Company Produces Environmental T-Shirt

16. Film Aims to Expose Dangers in US Food Industry

17. More Global Warming Threats

18. Reducing Abuses of Sheep Exported From Australia

19. Update on Podcasts

Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.

[Materials in brackets like this [ ] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]

Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of the kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observances, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in. Also, JVNA does not necessarily agree with all positions of groups whose views are included or whose events are announced in this newsletter.

As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.

Thanks,

Richard

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1. I Am Scheduled to Speak at SUMMERFEST 2009

At this major vegetarian event organized by the North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS), I plan to discuss the Jewish case for vegetarianism, why a shift toward vegetarianism is essential to avoid the impending unprecedented catastrophe that the world is approaching, strategy ideas toward a vegetarian-conscious world by 2012, and our movie “A Sacred Duty.” I am scheduled to be at the conference from Friday, July 10 to Sunday, July 12.

I hope many of you will come and help me spread our messages and get DVDs to key people. For more information, please visit
http://vegetariansummerfest.org/.

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2. Interested in Representing JVNA at an Upcoming Vegetarian or Animal Rights Conference?

There are many conferences scheduled for this summer. If you can represent JVNA at any conference, please let me know.

We can provide you with complimentary DVDs of “A Sacred Duty,” flyers and booklets, and possibly a stipend to cover some of the costs. Thanks.

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2a. Message to Vegetarian Activists re Getting Global Warming Onto Society's Agenda

I plan to send this to Veg-related groups soon. So, suggestions very welcome. Thanks.
-------------------------------------------------------
Dear fellow vegetarian, animal-rights, environmental and social justice activists,

We are the ones with the responsibility and opportunity to help the world avoid an unprecedented catastrophe and help shift it to a brighter, sustainable future.

The facts are starting to get into the mainstream, but let us consider some of the essentials:

* There are almost daily reports of severe droughts, heat waves, storms, flooding and wildfires and about meltings of polar icecaps and glaciers. While this has occurred due to an average temperature increase of about 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit in the past 100 years, global climate scientists are projecting an increase of from 3 to 11 degrees Fahrenheit in the next 100 years, which would result in an unparalleled disaster for humanity.

* A recent report indicated that our oceans may be virtually free of fish by 2050; species of plants and animals are disappearing at the fastest rate in history; it is projected that half of the world's people will live in areas chronically short of water by 2050;

* We do not have much time. Some climate scientists. Including James Hansen of NASA, are warning that global warming could reach a tipping point and spin out of control in a few years, with disastrous consequences, unless major changes soon occur.

* Scientists at the February, 2009 annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science indicated that global warming will likely increase more rapidly than expected because greenhouse gas emissions have increased faster than recent predictions and increased temperatures are setting off self-reinforcing feedback mechanisms in global ecosystems. (http://www.truthout.org/021609M)

* A major societal shift toward vegetarian diets is an essential step in responding to global warming.

A landmark 2006 report by the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization estimated that livestock production globally is responsible for more greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs, in CO2 equivalents) than the world's entire transportation sector. The report, “Livestock's Long Shadow,” projects that the world's current population of about 56 billion farmed animals will double in 50 years if human population growth and dietary trends continue. The resulting increase in greenhouse gas emissions would largely negate reduction goals for green house gas emission reductions from transportation, electricity and other, higher-profile sectors.

* Expert recognition of the importance of diet in preventing global warming is growing. This fall, Dr. Rajendra Pachauri, Chair of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which shared a Nobel Peace Prize with Al Gore in 2008, called on people in the developed world to "give up meat for one day [a week] initially, and decrease it from there." More recently, NASA climatologist James Hansen -- the world's most prominent scientific advocate of aggressive action against global warming -- told an interviewer:

"... if you eat further down on the food chain rather than animals, which have produced many greenhouse gases, and used much energy in the process of growing that meat, you can actually make a bigger contribution in that way than just about anything. So, that, in terms of individual action, is perhaps the best thing you can do."

It is essential that the above messages be more widely spread. Fortunately, there is much starting to happen re reducing global warming, including many global-warming-related actions planned worldwide on October 4, 2009 and a major conference of the world's nations scheduled for December, 2009 in Copenhagen. However, the major contributions of animal-based agriculture to global warming is seldom considered.

Thus, it is urgent that we do everything we can to get this issue onto society's agenda. We should spread the word as widely as possible through articles, letters to editors, calls to radio talk shows, contacts with media people, religious leaders, educators, as well as friends, neighbors and family members.

We must make it absolutely clear that, while much more has to be done, there is no way the world will avoid an unparalleled catastrophe if there is not a major societal shift to plant-based diets. We must stress that the future of humanity and all of creation is threatened as perhaps never before and swift actions are urgent.

Suggestions very welcome.

I plan to next write a press release based on the material above on behalf of the “Veg Climate Alliance” that I hope will be endorsed by many groups.

Yours, for a humane, healthy, just, environmentally sustainable world,

Richard Schwartz
Director, Veg Climate Alliance
President, Jewish Vegetarians of North America

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3. Virginia Working On Special License Plate for Vegetarians & Vegans

Vegetarians & Vegans!

Interested in the NEW Special Virginia License Plate for Vegetarians & Vegans?

For information & applications, please e-mail VeggiePlates@live.com

NEW! Special Virginia “Vegetarian” License Plates

* The new Special Virginia “Vegetarian” License Plates are being jointly sponsored by the Richmond Vegetarian Festival (www.veggiefest.org), Vegan Action (www.vegan.org), and the Vegetarian Society of Richmond (www.vegetarianrichmond.org).

* The first step in creating a new special plate in the Commonwealth of Virginia is to “demonstrate to the satisfaction of the General Assembly that they meet the statutory issuance requirements, which includes having collected 350 or more prepaid applications (i.e. completed application forms and plate fee)” (Code of Virginia § 46.2-725).

How do we make this happen?

* First, we must gather 350 completed applications, DMV Form VSA-10 (found at www.dmvNOW.com or at your local DMV). This is the same form you would use to request any regular, special, or personalized license plate from the DMV. This must be accompanied by the special license plate fee of $10.00. The $10.00 application fee that you submit is held in a separate account and is refundable if we don't gather enough signatures to proceed with the rest of the new special license plate process.

* Want a personalized plate or to retain your current license plate number? There is an additional $10.00 for personalization. This is the same fee you would pay at DMV for any personalized license plate.

* Special license plates for motorcycles are not currently available. Special license plates with the International Symbol of Access (ISA), i.e. “handicapped” plates, are available.

* After the 350 prepaid applications are collected, the special license plate authorization must be approved by the General Assembly and the Governor. The next General Assembly convenes in January 2010. Authorization should be obtained in July 2010.

SNIP

* BECOME A PART OF VEGETARIAN HISTORY BY ORDERING YOUR SPECIAL NEW VIRGINIA VEGETARIAN LICENSE PLATE TODAY! WE MUST HAVE 350 APPLICATIONS TO SUCCEED! SHOW THE WORLD THAT YOU ARE PROUD TO BE A VEGETARIAN OR A VEGAN!!

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4. Environmental Programs Scheduled in Israel

Forwarded message:

Eco-Israel
Duration: 5.5 months
Experience the healthy, economical and spiritual values of authentic permaculture-ecological living. Live with Israeli volunteers on an ecological farm near Modi'in, take part in field work, ecological learning experiences, and land of Israel studies. Contact: naomi.katz@havaveadam.org

Arava Institute for Environmental Studies
Duration: Semester/Academic Year
A program in environmental studies which gives students the opportunity for hands-on experience in the Middle East, together with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Students take academic courses, and learn peace-building and leadership skills. Contact: info@arava.org

Tikkun Olam in Tel Aviv-Jaffa
A volunteer and study program for Jewish English-speaking college graduates which offers two tracks: Community Service and Coexistence. In the first, participants volunteer in South Tel Aviv with immigrants, foreign workers or refugees. In the second, participants volunteer in Jaffa's Arab and Jewish integrated neighborhoods and learn Arabic. Contact: tikunolam@takam.co.il

------------------------------------------------------

The Green Village - Hakfar Hayarok
An innovative volunteer-based program that gives participants the opportunity to make a positive contribution to Israeli society through English-tutoring, gardening, horse-breeding, animal care, and more, while living in a kibbutz-like eco-setting 15 minutes from Tel Aviv. Contact: lori@kfaryarok.org.il

Saving the Stones

Delve into conservation and archaeology through theoretical classes and practical field work. A project of the Israel Antiquities Authority, the Old Acre Development Company, ICOMOS - Israel, and the Israel National Commission for UNESCO, Saving the Stones allows young adults to physically immerse themselves in history.

Program includes:
Courses in archaeology and conservation
Hands-on work in the documentation of historical sites and traditional building techniques, such as masonry, stone-cutting, carpentry, and plaster
Heritage courses
Study tours throughout Israel with conservation specialists and archaeologists
Hebrew Ulpan

Program location:
Old Acre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Program duration:
5 months, with start dates:
September 6, 2009 and February 22, 2010

Open to:
Young adults, ages 20-30

For more information, contact:
Director of International Conservation Center
Shelley-Anne Peleg
shelleypel@bezeqint.net
972-4-9956726
www.antiquities.org.il/akko

Ground yourself in the real Israel and use your motivation to make a difference. Volunteer, learn Hebrew, pursue a professional internship, use your skills, and take initiative.

Program includes:
Sept-Nov: Hebrew studies and volunteering
December: Judaic studies seminar or Sar-El army volunteering
January-March: Community volunteering
April-June: Internship in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem
Trips throughout Israel

Program location:
Locations throughout Israel

Program duration:
10 months

Open to:
Jewish young adults, ages 20-26

For more information, contact:
Nicole Bodenstein
North American Director of Recruitment

1-866-GO-OTZMA
www.otzma.org/
1-866-GO-OTZMA

Rachel Trager
Marketing Associate
MASA Israel Journey: The Gateway to Long-Term Programs in Israel
www.masaisrael.org
1-866-GO-OTZMA

Email:
1-866-GO-OTZMA

Tel: 212-339-6976
Saving the Stones - A Conservation Internship

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5. Correction

In the last [e-mail] newsletter, I discussed that I was Interviewed by the director of EarthSave on Jewish teachings on vegetarianism and related issues. The correct spelling of her name is Caryn Hartglass. I regret the error.

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6. Canfei Nesharim [Orthodox Jewish Environmental Group] Seeking Financial Support

Forwarded message from Canfei Nesharim:

Dear friends,
This is a difficult year to be a young Jewish organization. With the economic crisis, many Jewish foundations have decided not to accept new grant proposals until 2010. That leaves innovative organizations like Canfei Nesharim with limited grant prospects at this essential time for our community and our environment.

Canfei Nesharim does not have a lot of major donors or foundations sustaining our work. Instead, we rely on a smaller pool of committed supporters to make the case for the essential importance of environmental learning, based on the traditions of the Torah.

We count on you.

In the coming year, with your help, we will reach tens of thousands of Jews with our message: protecting the environment is a key Jewish responsibility. These Torah lessons empower Jews to protect the environment, infuse Torah-based wisdom into today's environmental dialogues, and bring the Jewish message of hope, responsibility, and sustainability to our world.

As we conclude our fiscal year (June 30), we need to raise only $4000 to balance our budget and complete our commitments for the year. In difficult times, we rely on our consistent supporters to hold the vision and help us continue this education.

Please make a contribution to help us end our year sustainably.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Evonne Marzouk
Executive Director

Our address has changed! Please note our new contact information:
Correspondence: Canfei Nesharim 〓 908 Brentwood Lane 〓 Silver Spring, MD 20902
Contributions: Canfei Nesharim 〓 PO Box 7 〓 Roseland, NJ 07068

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7. Hakol Chai Demonstrators Block Tel Aviv City Hall to Protest Horse Abuse

Forward message from Concern for Helping Animals in Israel (CHAI):

Message to Mayor: Horse-Drawn Carts Have No Place in a Modern World

Monday, June 8, 2009

Dozens of Hakol Chai protestors carrying signs saying "Horses and donkeys are not vehicles," "Animals are not cars," "Carriages and carts are a dead trend," "They're hurting; don't you care?" and "Stop Animal Abuse." blocked the entrance to Tel Aviv's City Hall to protest the Mayor's refusal to ban the use of horse-drawn carts in the city. These animals are overworked, made to carry heavy loads beyond their capacity through busy city traffic, not provided with veterinary care, and forced to stand in the hot sun without water or shade. Often beaten and starved, eventually they collapse in the street, and animal groups are asked to move them out of the way.

Hakol Chai is the Israeli sister charity of Concern for Helping Animals in Israel (CHAI),
www.chai-online.org

Tel Aviv's municipal veterinarian agreed with Hakol Chai that abuse cannot be prevented through regulations, especially since the city has neither the funds to regularly inspect the horses nor a facility to house them if they remove them from their abusers. Still, the Mayor continues to take no action.

The protesters passed out hundreds of pamphlets explaining the plight of the horses to pedestrians on the street that runs in front of City Hall, one of the city's busiest, and also to city employees as they entered and exited the building. Some of the protesters lay on the ground as if they were dead to depict what becomes of the abused animals.

Hakol Chai's protest, part of the Second International Action Against the Horse-Drawn Carriage and Cart Trade, was one in a series of actions to raise awareness of the issue. Hakol Chai has repeatedly exposed the problem of horse abuse in Jaffa, the old part of Tel Aviv, rescued and rehabilitated abused horses, and pressed the City Council to deal with the issue until it convened a special session on the subject. The organization also wrote to Mayors around the country, urging them to take action to protect these animals who are often abused.

In response to Hakol Chai's campaign, cart horse owners began heavily lobbying the Mayor's office to prevent the enactment of a ban and so far, the Mayor has been reluctant to take action against this special interest group. In December, 350 city residents turned out for a protest concert [http://www.chai-online.org/en/campaigns/horses/campaigns_horse_event7dec08.htm] organized by Hakol Chai, at which musicians and singers who supported the cause of the horses volunteered to perform. Hakol Chai will continue to take action to keep the issue in the public eye until a ban is enacted.

For names and contact information of officials to write to, asking them to ban horse-drawn carts in the city of Tel Aviv, see Help Stop Horse Abuse in Israel
[http://www.chai-online.org/en/campaigns/horses/campaigns_horse_letter.htm]

To see this e-alert as a web page, go to:
http://www.chai-online.org/e-news/june09/chaialert_june09.htm

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8. Global Climate Actions Related to the Copenhagen Global Warming Conference

Forwarded message from Carolin at Veg Climate Alliance:

in Bonn I learned about the following action of Friends of the Earth for Copenhagen, see:
http://www.foei.org/en/what-we-do/un-climate-talks/global/the-flood-is-coming

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The Flood is coming

Join Friends of the Earth International on December 12, 2009 and help 'flood' Copenhagen in a call for climate justice.

From December 7-18, 2009, the 15th UN climate conference (COP-15) will take place in Copenhagen, Denmark. Here, governments from around the world will meet to discuss efforts to tackle global warming.

Friends of the Earth International will also be there. We're inviting people to come to Copenhagen to help build pressure on governments to find fair solutions to the climate crisis. We believe that rich industrialized countries, which have historically emitted the most greenhouse gases, must agree to urgent and dramatic cuts in their emissions starting NOW.

This is absolutely fundamental if we are to prevent the most devastating effects of global warming on the world - in particular on the world's most impoverished and vulnerable people. Our message to the negotiators is that the historical climate debt to the Global South must be repaid.

The talks will also be attended by lobbyists from the World Bank and industry. We need to make sure that any agreement that might be reached doesn't end up promoting the interests of big business, while robbing people of their land and their rights to survival.

An agreement that allows rich countries to continue polluting by funding unsustainable offset projects in the Global South, and which relies on false solutions such as mega dams, nuclear power, carbon capture and storage and monoculture tree plantations, must be rejected. The World Bank must not be allowed to control climate finance. Forests must not become commodities to be traded as part of global carbon markets.

People can influence our governments and hold them to account. That's why Friends of the Earth International is organising the 'Flood for Climate Justice' in Copenhagen on Saturday December 12, 2009. In the middle of the two weeks of negotiations, we will 'flood' through the streets of Copenhagen with our demands for climate justice.

We're encouraging as many people as possible to come to Copenhagen, using the most environmentally friendly transport they can, to be part of a movement for climate justice. The event will be the high point in a year of cyber-actions, street actions and campaigning from Friends of the Earth groups around the world.

We invite everyone who shares our vision to join the exciting spectacle on December 12, when we will use our bodies and our voices to create a message that decision-makers and lobbyists cannot ignore:

The Flood Is Coming!
Contact:
friends of the earth international
secretariat po box 19199, 1000 gd amsterdam, the netherlands
tel: 31 20 622 1369. fax: 31 20 639 2181.
Contact form: http://www.foei.org/en/who-we-are/about/contact-form

-------------------------------------------------------
Forwarded message continued:

I think we could contact them and ask them to allow the Veg Climate Alliance to mobilize pro-veg groups and orgs from all over the world to demand cutting down on meat production and consumption as a way of climate justice and join the human flood in Copenhagen. What do you think? If you agree, I will get in touch. (I think this will work better than through the Global Climate Campaign.) They are the world's biggest environmental grassroots org, and as far as I know, the are even pro- veg themselves.

Many blessings,

Carolin

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8a. Teleconference Featuring Noted Author/Speaker Will Tuttle Scheduled

Thanks to JVNA advisor Kris Haley for forwarding this message. I have read Will's great book “the World Peace Diet” and am a big fan of his - so I highly recommend attendance at the teleconference if you can make it.

Join PEACEANIMAL for a *FREE* Teleconference featuring Dr. Will Tuttle --- Author of The World Peace Diet

Dr. Will Tuttle is an award-winning speaker, educator, author, and musician. His music, writings, and presentations focus on creativity, intuition, and compassion. Dr. Tuttle's paradigm shifting book, The World Peace Diet, has been called the most important book of the 21st century: the foundation of a new society based on the truth of the interconnectedness of all life. Incorporating systems theory, teachings from mythology and religions, and the human sciences, The World Peace Diet presents the outlines of a more empowering understanding of our world, based on a comprehension of the far-reaching implications of our food choices and the worldview those choices reflect and mandate. The World Peace Diet suggests how we as a species might move our consciousness forward so that we can be more free, more intelligent, more loving, and happier in the choices we make.

No need to RSVP! We've reserved room for the first 150 attendees, so don't be late!

Conference Details

Date: Thursday, June 18, 2009

Start Time: 4:00 PM Pacific/Arizona Time, 5:00PM Mountain Time, 6:00 PM Central Time, 7:00 PM Eastern Time

Length: 60 - 90 minutes with time for questions

Dial-in Number: 1-605-475-6333

Participant Access Code: 623895

Just dial in at the corresponding time for your area, follow the directions and enter the Participant Access Code --- and we'll see you there! We'll save time for questions at the end!

About the Author
Will Tuttle has a master's degree in humanities from San Francisco State University and a Ph.D. in the philosophy of education from the University of California. A professional pianist and teacher, he has for the last thirteen years toured progressive churches, vegetarian and macrobiotic conferences, and intentional communities throughout the country. He trained in Korea as a Zen Buddhist monk and has worked extensively in Tai Chi, yoga, massage, and dance and movement. Read more about Dr. Tuttle and Madeleine Tuttle at http://www.worldpeacediet.com/ and http://www.willtuttle.com

PEACEANIMAL is dedicated to expanding the concept of PEACE to include all species
http://www.peaceanimal.com

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9. More Destructive Storms Projected for a Warming World

From: "Earth Policy News" arthpolicynews@earthpolicy.org
Date: June 9, 2009

Subject: Earth Policy News - A Warming World Means More Destructive Storms

Earth Policy Institute
Plan B 3.0 Book Byte
June 9, 2009

http://www.earthpolicy.org/Books/Seg/PB3ch03_ss6.htm

Lester R. Brown

Elevated global temperatures bring a number of threats, including rising seas and more crop-withering heat waves. Higher surface water temperatures in the tropical oceans also provide more energy to drive tropical storm systems, leading to more-destructive hurricanes and typhoons. The combination of rising seas, more powerful storms, and stronger storm surges can be devastating.

Just how devastating this combination can be became evident in late August 2005, when Hurricane Katrina came onshore on the U.S. Gulf Coast near New Orleans. In some Gulf Coast towns, Katrina's powerful 28-foot-high storm surge did not leave a single structure standing. New Orleans survived the initial hit but was flooded when the inland levees were breached and water covered everything in large parts of the city except for the rooftops, where thousands of people were stranded. Even in August 2006, a year after the storm had passed, the most damaged areas of the city remained without water, power, sewage disposal, garbage collection, or telecommunications.

SNIP

# # #

Adapted from Chapter 3, “Rising Temperatures and Rising Seas,” in Lester R. Brown, Plan B 3.0: Mobilizing to Save Civilization (New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 2008), available for free downloading and purchase at www.earthpolicy.org/Books/PB3/index.htm.

For information contact:

Media Contact:
Reah Janise Kauffman
Tel: (202) 496-9290 x 12
E-mail: rjk@earthpolicy.org

Research Contact:
Janet Larsen
Tel: (202) 496-9290 x 14
E-mail: jlarsen@earthpolicy.org

Earth Policy Institute
1350 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 403
Washington, DC 20036
Web: www.earthpolicy.org

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10. MIT Study: Global Warming Will Likely Be Worse Than Thought

http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2009/roulette-0519.html

Thanks to JVNA's dedicated, efficient Secretary/Treasurer for forwarding this article to us:

limate change odds much worse than thought

New analysis shows warming could be double previous estimates

David Chandler, MIT News Office
May 19, 2009

The most comprehensive modeling yet carried out on the likelihood of how much hotter the Earth's climate will get in this century shows that without rapid and massive action, the problem will be about twice as severe as previously estimated six years ago - and could be even worse than that.

The study uses the MIT Integrated Global Systems Model, a detailed computer simulation of global economic activity and climate processes that has been developed and refined by the Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change since the early 1990s. The new research involved 400 runs of the model with each run using slight variations in input parameters, selected so that each run has about an equal probability of being correct based on present observations and knowledge. Other research groups have estimated the probabilities of various outcomes, based on variations in the physical response of the climate system itself. But the MIT model is the only one that interactively includes detailed treatment of possible changes in human activities as well - such as the degree of economic growth, with its associated energy use, in different countries.

Study co-author Ronald Prinn, the co-director of the Joint Program and director of MIT's Center for Global Change Science, says that, regarding global warming, it is important "to base our opinions and policies on the peer-reviewed science," he says. And in the peer-reviewed literature, the MIT model, unlike any other, looks in great detail at the effects of economic activity coupled with the effects of atmospheric, oceanic and biological systems. "In that sense, our work is unique," he says.

The new projections, published this month in the American Meteorological Society's Journal of Climate, indicate a median probability of surface warming of 5.2 degrees Celsius by 2100, with a 90% probability range of 3.5 to 7.4 degrees. This can be compared to a median projected increase in the 2003 study of just 2.4 degrees. The difference is caused by several factors rather than any single big change. Among these are improved economic modeling and newer economic data showing less chance of low emissions than had been projected in the earlier scenarios. Other changes include accounting for the past masking of underlying warming by the cooling induced by 20th century volcanoes, and for emissions of soot, which can add to the warming effect. In addition, measurements of deep ocean temperature rises, which enable estimates of how fast heat and carbon dioxide are removed from the atmosphere and transferred to the ocean depths, imply lower transfer rates than previously estimated.

SNIP

This work was supported in part by grants from the Office of Science of the U.S. Dept. of Energy, and by the industrial and foundation sponsors of the MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change.

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11. Expanded Coalitions Support U.S. Climate Bill

Worldwide Institute

By Ben Block June 8. 2009

http://www.worldwatch.org/node/6146

Thanks to JVNA advisor Ron Landskroner for forwarding this article to us.

In an effort to broaden support for sweeping climate legislation, environmentalists are forming atypical alliances with other progressive social organizations.

Groups such as the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN), MoveOn, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) are part of a growing coalition of social welfare, labor, religious, and healthcare organizations joining forces with the traditional environmental lobby.

Major environmental groups say a nationwide grassroots effort is necessary to raise support for binding federal legislation to address climate change, especially during an economic recession when leaders are concerned that such reforms may adversely affect manufacturing industries and energy costs.

Climate legislation took a major step forward late last month when leaders of a House of Representatives energy committee convinced several moderate legislators to support the "American Clean Energy and Security Act." The bill promises to reduce U.S. carbon emissions 17 percent by 2020 and 83 percent by 2050, compared to 2005 levels, through a national cap-and-trade system.

Climate campaigners are now devising strategies to "pass and strengthen" the bill, despite intense industry opposition. The legislation is expected to undergo a House vote sometime this summer. A more challenging fight will take place in the U.S. Senate, where complementary legislation must gain support from moderate legislators concerned about how their states' economies could be affected.

SNIP

Ben Block is a staff writer with the Worldwatch Institute. He can be reached at bblock@worldwatch.org.

This article is a product of Eye on Earth, Worldwatch Institute's online news service. For permission to reprint Eye on Earth content, please contact Juli Diamond at jdiamond@worldwatch.org

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12. GreenFaith Fellowship Program Seeks Applicants

Forwarded message from GreenFaith's Larry Troster:

Interfaith Environmental Leadership Education and Training

Is God calling you to become a religious-environmental leader?

GreenFaith, an interfaith environmental coalition, announces the opening of the application process for the third class of the GreenFaith Fellowship Program for clergy and laity from diverse religious traditions. The Program is the only comprehensive US training program to turn lay and ordained leaders from diverse traditions into environmental leaders. Application materials for this national program are at www.greenfaith.org, and the deadline for applications has been extended to June 16th.

“This is a fantastic program,” said LeeAnne Beres, GreenFaith Fellow and Executive Director of Earth Ministry, a Seattle-based ecumenical Christian group. “It's well suited to clergy or lay leaders looking to strengthen their environmental ministry, and provides a well-rounded curriculum of eco-theology, environmental justice, and practical application.”

Creating a Cadre of New Leaders

Each year, the GreenFaith Fellowship Program gives a new class of clergy and laity the unique tools they need to become effective environmental leaders.

Each Fellow attends three residential retreats focused on eco-spirituality, environmental justice, and sustainability. Fellows also write their own eco-theological statement, and carry out an environmental leadership project. “There is a shortage of religious leaders in the United States who are speaking out on environmental issues,” said Dr. Mary Evelyn Tucker, Director of the Forum on Religion and Ecology at Yale University. “The GreenFaith Fellowship Program is indispensable.”

Fellows are selected through a competitive application process. GreenFaith strongly encourages applicants from the African American, Asian, Latino, Jewish, Islamic and Catholic communities.

Join a Leader

Founded in 1992, GreenFaith is an interfaith environmental coalition which educates and mobilizes people of diverse religious backgrounds as environmental leaders.

GreenFaith is widely recognized as a leader in the international religious-environmental movement. Through a range of innovative programs, GreenFaith helps diverse religious institutions put their beliefs into action for the earth. From eco-themed worship services and religious education to 'green' facility management and environmental justice advocacy, GreenFaith provides a unique variety of resources and opportunities for religious-environmental action. To find our more about GreenFaith, see www.greenfaith.org.

GreenFaith is grateful to the Richard Oram Charitable Trust, the Kendeda Fund, the Edgebrook Foundation, and to GreenFaith members for the support that makes the Fellowship Program possible.

For further information about the Fellowship Program or to request an application form, contact Rabbi Lawrence Troster, Fellowship Program Director, at rabbiltroster@greenfaith.org or 732-565-7740, ext. 302.

Rabbi Lawrence Troster,
Director, Fellowship Program,
GreenFaith
201 833-5166 (home office)
732 565-7740 ex. 302 (office)
www.greenfaith.org
46 Bayard St.,
Suite 401,
New Brunswick, NJ 08901

"How great are Your works, O Lord,

How very profound Your designs!"

(Psalm 92:6)

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13. Israel Taking Actions Against Global Warming

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/131794

Israel Joining the Fight Against Global Warming

by Hillel Fendel

(IsraelNN.com) The Knesset held an Environment Awareness Day on Tuesday, while outside, several dozen people demanded more public transportation as a way of fighting Israel's contribution to global warming.

Several different panels and discussions were held on various environmental topics in the Knesset, dealing mainly with the topic of global warming and Israel's preparations - or lack thereof - for the new U.N. international climate agreement that will succeed the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012. Israel is currently not listed among those countries that are required to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions, but this is expected to change in 2012.

The United Nations will hold its preparatory Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in December of this year.

Proponents of more government support for public transportation say that 14% of Israel's carbon emissions come from transportation, and that much of this is caused by private vehicle use.

MKs Zev Bielski, Nitzan Horowitz, Ophir Paz, Eitan Cabel and Dov Hanin took part in the outdoor demonstration on Tuesday, which featured a two-meter tall mock weight-scale, with a large globe on one side and a pile of private cars on the other.

The organizers called on Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz of the Likud to “lead a dramatic change regarding transportation emissions. Instead of traffic jams, air pollution, an end to open spaces [which are turned into highways], and traffic accidents, the correct approach is to invest much more in the encouragement of public transportation and improvement of its infrastructures.”

The Global Humanitarian Forum in Geneva issued a report last month estimating that climate change now accounts for over 300,000 deaths throughout the world each year. The report also found that climate change "seriously impacts on the lives of 325 million people.”

Forum President Kofi Annan said that climate change “is the greatest emerging humanitarian challenge of our time. Already today, it causes suffering to hundreds of millions of people, most of whom are not even aware that they are victims of climate change… We can no longer afford to ignore the human impact of climate change. Put simply, the report is a clarion call for negotiators at Copenhagen to come to the most ambitious international agreement ever negotiated - or continue to accept mass starvation, mass sickness and mass migration on an ever growing scale.”

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14. Update Re Possible Fur ban in Israel

Forwarded message from Herma Caelen of EVANA:

Subject: Fondation Brigitte Bardot: Fur soon to be prohibited in Israel

5 June 2009

A bill aiming at prohibiting the importation, production and sale of any fur in Israel was recently filed in the Knesset and will be put to the vote by the House Deputies.

Supporting this text, Brigitte Bardot wrote to Nitzan Horowitz, author of the proposal, to congratulate and thank him: “This bill represents a major step forward, an example to the world which needs to respect and recognize animals as sensitive beings. As we all know, the fur industry condemns million of animals to be locked and piled up in cages, then tortured before being gassed or electrocuted, it is a shameful and indignant industry! I have a deep respect and a sincere admiration for your personal fight against any form of discrimination, any violence perpetrated on those suffering despite their race or species. The political powers governing our world seem deprived of all humanity and empathy, we would need a Nitzan Horowitz in each country to try to restore the balance, but alas that is a far way off....

http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=45456&lang=en

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15. Israeli Company Produces Environmental T-Shirt

Thanks to Rabbi Dovid Sears, JVNA Advisor and author of “The Vision of Eden: Animal Welfare and Vegetarianism in Jewish Law and Mysicism” for forwarding this article:
http://www.judaicawebstore.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=JWS-TG-78

Israel T-Shirt - Environmental. Olive Green
JWS-TG-78

High quality, machine washable - 100% cotton

Show your love for Israel - and the environment - with this wonderful t-shirt! Its great artwork and quality production will make it perfect for anybody.

According to Jewish tradition, on the 6th day of creation, G-d showed Adam the Garden of Eden and told him to protect it. The Hebrew text (from Kohelet Rabba) under the olive branch gives G-d's message to Adam, which translates as:

Be attentive not to ruin or destroy my world, for if you ruin it, nobody will come after you to fix it.

The English text at the bottom reads Protect the Environment.

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16. Film Aims to Expose Dangers in US Food Industry

Tuesday 09 June 2009

by: Christine Kearney |

http://www.truthout.org/061009HA

New York - Bigger-breasted chickens fattened artificially. New strains of deadly E. coli bacteria. A food supply controlled by a handful of corporations.

The documentary "Food, Inc." opens in the United States on Friday and portrays these purported dangers and changes in the US food industry, asserting harmful effects on public health, the environment, and worker and animal rights.

Big corporations such as biotech food producer Monsanto Co., US meat companies Tyson Food Inc. and Smithfield Foods, and poultry producer Perdue Farms all declined to be interviewed for the film.

But the industry has not stood silent. Trade associations across the $142-billion-a-year U.S. meat industry have banded together to counter the claims. Led by the American Meat Institute, they have created a number of websites, including one called SafeFoodInc.com.

"Each sector of the industry that's named is doing its part to counter a lot of the misinformation in the movie," said Lisa Katic, a dietitian and consultant with an unnamed coalition of trade associations representing the food industry.

Their campaign promotes the U.S. food supply as safe, abundant and affordable, whereas the film asserts that images of animals grazing on grassy farms emblazoned on U.S. food product labels are misleading.

"Food, Inc." explores the argument that food comes not from friendly farms but from industrial factories that put profit ahead of human health.

"The film pulls back the curtain on the way food is produced," said Michael Pollan, who appears in the film and is the best-selling author of several books including "In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto.

"Products with farm labels attached - this stuff comes from factories now," he said.

But an industry spokesman said 98 percent of U.S. farms were family owned and operated and they accounted for 82 percent of farm production.

Mace Thornton of the American Farm Bureau, the nation's largest farm group, said the industry was interested in the well-being of farm animals.

"If a farmer or rancher is not the kind of person to take care of their animals, they're not going to be in business long," he said.

A Peek Inside

The film shows footage inside cattle, pork and chicken production plants, some secretly recorded by immigrant workers under cramped conditions for both workers and the animals.

Maryland farmer Carole Morison let cameras in to show chickens collapsing and dying before they are put on the market because, she said, of fast weight gain caused in part by antibiotics in the feed. Morison said she lost her contract with Perdue.

The film says U.S. food corporations now widely use industrial techniques linked to growing problems like obesity, diabetes, salmonella, toxic strains of common E. coli bacteria and environmental pollution.

"Confined animal agriculture is so unsustainable in so many ways. It depends on using antibiotics in the feed that lead to antibiotic-resistant diseases. It produces more pollution than any other industry," Pollan said.

"It costs treasury, costs the public health system," he said. "The film vividly shows it costs the people who do the work and of course it is brutal to the animal."

Barbara Kowalcyk, whose 2-year-old son Kevin died from an infection of E. coli, appears in the film trying to persuade Congress to pass "Kevin's law," which would give the U.S. Department of Agriculture the power to shut down plants that produce contaminated meats. It has not passed.

Consumers can effect change, the film says, pointing to Stonyfield Farm's Gary Hirshberg, who now offers his line of organic products at giant chain Wal-Mart due to demand.

"You vote for what you eat by what you buy at the supermarket," Pollan said.

--------

(Additional reporting by Daniel Trotta; editing by Michelle Nichols and Philip Barbara)

-------------------------------------------------------
Comments on the documentary by vegetarian activist Susan Kalev:

Last week I attended premier of the docu film FOOD, INC directed by Robert Kenner, who worked over 6 years on the film, at the elegant TIMES CENTER. It is a dynamite investigation of the food industr y, exposing the mechanized food production - incl. animal and human and environmental suffering - exploitation of immigrant workers, the corruption of gov't regulatory agencies, the agricultural monopoly giants that terrorize farmers. Makes the link between unsafe food production and health, such as obesity, e-coli, diabetes and even world hunger. It includes long interviews with Eric Schlosser (Fast Food Nation), Michael Pollan and founders of the organic movement.

Makes clear the disastrous results of feeding cows corn and soy instead of grass. ( Take note of last Friday's NYT article on how we must change cow's diet to reduce methane gas).

Expounds the point over and over as to how consumers are kept in the dark, the conspiracy to hide info from consumers. We are in effect hostages of the food giants.
We in the animal & environmental movements know a lot about this, but you will discover new terrors in the film. Believe this! The mother of a baby who died from e-coli in a hamburger is not "allowed" to say on camera that hamburgers are bad for threat of being sued by the company. Is this not terrorism?

THE FILM IS OPENING JUNE 12 AT THE FILM FORUM ( west Houston st). TAKE YOURSELF AND FRIENDS TO SEE IT, WE MUST SUPPORT THESE FILMMAKERS!
The film is reviewed in the NYT Arts section of last Sunday june

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17. More Global Warming Threats

Thursday 11 June 2009

by: Alister Doyle |

Climate change seen worsening disasters. Small islands, other developing nations most at risk.

http://www.truthout.org/061109EA

Bonn, Germany - Climate change will aggravate natural disasters and people in developing nations such as Dominica, Vanuatu, Myanmar and Guatemala are most at risk, a U.N.-backed study showed on Thursday.

It urged governments to invest hundreds of billions of dollars to curb mounting impacts of hazards such as cyclones, floods, droughts, landslides, earthquakes and tsunamis.

"Risk is ... felt most acutely by people living in poor rural areas and slums," U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote in the report, issued on the sidelines of June 1-12 U.N. climate talks in Bonn working on a new treaty to combat global warming.

"Climate change will magnify the uneven distribution of risk, skewing disaster impacts even further towards poor communities in developing countries," the Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction said.

Andrew Maskrey, lead author of the report, said that developing countries with big populations - led by China, India, Bangladesh and Indonesia - suffered the most fatalities from natural disasters.

"But you also have to look at it in relative terms - the proportion of the population at risk," he told a news conference. By that yardstick, those at risk were "mainly small countries - many small islands ... and small countries."

The list was topped by Dominica in the Caribbean, Vanuatu in the Pacific along with Myanmar and Guatemala.

SNIP

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18. Reducing Abuses of Sheep Exported From Australia

Forwarded message from JVNA advisor Ivan Kessel:

It's not often that I forward emails on - it's only in cases like this that I feel very strongly about.

I would encourage all of you I have forwarded this to to stop for 1 minute to think about this, and if you wish to forward it on to others.

Kind regards

Ivan

This not a joke and has real consequences. You literally have the fate of thousands of lives in your hands. You can help to end the cruelty of live sheep export from Australia to the Middle East and stop the needless deaths of tens of thousands of animals a year en route. During their transport by sea, sheep are generally confined in poorly lit, cramped conditions. They are at risk of injury, heat stress and disease. Many starve due to stress or because they fail to recognise unfamiliar pellets as food. The sheep that do reach the Middle East are often exposed to appalling handling and slaughter techniques that would neither be legal nor tolerated in Australia. But worst of all, this suffering is completely unnecessary, as alternatives do exist. Visit www.humanechain.org to bring an end to this intolerable cruelty by joining the Humane Chain that's spreading across Australia. Jason Buckwalter in NSW received this letter, did not respond in any way and as a result, nothing happened to him. Thousands of sheep a year however, are not so fortunate. Please send this letter immediately on to five friends. Act quickly, as this isn't a question of superstition. No animal deserves to suffer the ordeal of live export. The longer you delay, the longer this cruelty will continue.

Don't be afraid to send on this letter.
Be afraid not to.

Visit [humaneChain.org]

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19. Update on Podcasts

Forwarded message from Joseph Puentes

This time we have three new Audio Presentations for the VSSE podcast:

1) Pythagoras, Plato, and Socrates:

2) Pamela Rice "Fossil Fuel Alchemy" - Read by Dawn D'Arcangelo:

3) Kathy Freston: "A Few More 'Inconvenient Truths' " - Read by Tricia Orr:
-------------------------------------------------------
The VSSE podcast has a Facebook presence. You can send me your friend suggestions (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=757836449&ref=name) and join the group here: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=40863727638 Please spread the word that the podcast exists share with your "Environmentalist" friends. Also we have a FB Event for the Howard Lyman and Jerry Cook Discussion, The Pythagoras, Plato, and Socrates; Pamela Rice and Kathy Freston Podcasts: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=110806093618

I NEED 5-10 people to help me Veg-Evangelize to Environmental Groups on Facebook (and off facebook too). Here is what I need. We'll each send out a short message (I can supply the message) to 4 FB Environmental Groups per week/per month/or just as often as you'd like. The problem is that I've already had my FB account suspended a few weeks ago for being too "aggressive" in trying to spread the word about transitioning to a plant based diet and the next time it might be permanent. I've already gained two more warnings and feel like I'm walking on thin ice. So the plan is to gather a "Few" good folks to send out these messages with the goal being to FORCE the conversation in the direction of "The single most important thing an individual can do for the environment is to go Vegan."- email me: NoMeat@h2opodcast.com and I'll give more details - Please Help!

SNIP

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** Fair Use Notice **

The material on this site is provided for educational and informational purposes. It may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. It is being made available in an effort to advance the understanding of vegetarian, environmental, nutritional, health, economic, social justice and human rights issues etc. It is believed that this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have an interest in using the included information for educational or research purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond 'fair use', you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. The information on this site does not constitute legal, technical or medical advice.

6/7/2009 JVNA Online Newsletter

2009-06-09T23:35:00.003-04:00

Shalom everyone,

This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:

1. Promoting A SACRED DUTY/How YOU Can Help

2. My Interview By Caryn Hartglass of EarthSave TV Now on the Internet

3. New Documentary Challenges Factory Farming

4. Support Anti-Fur Bill in Israel

5. Physician Writes Of Why He Stopped Eating Meat

6. Climate Change Could Influence Mid East Peace Prospects

7. Review of New Book on Religion and the Environment

8. Article Looks Back at Today's World From a Vegan 2109

9. Jewish Conference Scheduled/”A Sacred Duty” and Video of My Talk at the Flatbush JCC To Be Shown

10. ABC News Special Dramatically Shows Potential Effects of Global Warming

11. Thoughts on a [Possible] Coming Vegetarian Revolution

12. New Book Promotes Animal Protection

Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.

[Materials in brackets like this [ ] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]

Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of the kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observances, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in. Also, JVNA does not necessarily agree with all positions of groups whose views are included or whose events are announced in this newsletter.

As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.

Thanks,

Richard

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1. Promoting A SACRED DUTY/How YOU Can Help

We are VERY fortunate to have an anonymous volunteer who is making DVDs of “A Sacred Duty: Applying Jewish Values to Help Heal the World” for 30 - 40 cents each. This enables us to relatively inexpensively continue to distribute complimentary copies of the acclaimed documentary. And with the world increasingly approaching an unprecedented catastrophe from global warming and other environmental threats, it is more important than ever that as many people as possible see the movie.

So, please consider doing one or more of the following:

* Request one or more complimentary DVDs to view and to share with others, by contacting me at president@JewishVeg.com.

* Let people know that they can see the entire movie and order a complimentary DVD by visiting ASAcredDuty.com. There are also reviews, blurbs and questions and answers about the movie at that web site.

* Try to arrange a showing at a local synagogue, Jewish Community Center, Jewish school or other venue.

* Try to arrange a showing at a local community TV station.

* Speak to rabbis, educators, friends, relatives and anyone else who might be interested about them seeing the movie.

* Please let me know of any suggestions you may have re getting the movie more widely seen.

* Please make a tax-deductible donation to JVNA by going to JewishVeg.com/action. This will enable us to continue to distribute complimentary DVDs to as many people as possible.

MANY THANKS.

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2. My Interview By Caryn Hartglass of EarthSave TV Now on the Internet

You can see the entire interview by visiting:
http://media.podcastingmanager.com/3/5/4/2/7/148422-172453/Media/ItsAllAboutFood052009.mp3

EarthSave's description of the interview is below:

Richard H. Schwartz, Ph.D. Dr. Schwartz, Professor Emeritus, College of Staten Island, the author of "Judaism and Vegetarianism," "Judaism and Global Survival," and "Mathematics and Global Survival," and over 130 articles at www.JewishVeg.com. He is President of the Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) and Society of Ethical and Religious Vegetarians (SERV), the Associate Producer of “A SACRED DUTY” and the Director Veg Climate Alliance. We talk about why people should be vegetarian today, why Jews and others who take their religions seriously should be vegetarians and what can be done to better promote vegetarianism as well as discussing the movie A SACRED DUTY that he helped produce.

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3. New Documentary Challenges Factory Farming

Forwarded message:

Indigestible
A new documentary will do for the perils of mass-produced food what An Inconvenient Truth did for global warming

By Miranda Purves | May 20, 2009 4:00 p.m.
documentary release - Food, Inc.

http://www.elle.com/Entertainment/Movies-TV/Indigestible

At least until its effect wears off, the riveting new documentary Food, Inc.-call it the real Scary Movie-will have you running from the supermarket for the hills, preferably ones dotted with grass-fed cows. From conversations with gentle activist-journalist Michael Pollan (The Omnivore's Dilemma) to scenes of meat processing plants grinding bone and gristle through ammonia before packing it in plastic-lined boxes and sending it off to the National School Lunch Program, director Robert Kenner paints a picture of a highly industrialized food system that in the past 15 years has come to control much of what we eat under a veil of secrecy, leaving obesity, diabetes, poverty, and pollution in its wake. In the midst of a media feeding frenzy before the film hits theaters this month-even Martha Stewart rushed to the press screening-we spoke to Kenner.

ELLE: In the movie, the National Chicken Council's communications director says, “These systems…produce a lot of food, on a small amount of land, at an affordable price-now somebody explain to me what is wrong with that?”

ROBERT KENNER: Low-cost food comes at a very high cost to all of us. It is mistreating the people who grow it and making us sick.

ELLE: You visit a family who can afford value meals but not fresh broccoli.

RK: Yes, they also live in what's known as a “food desert”-parts of the country where people have far greater access to fast food than fresh produce. The father spends $200 every other week on diabetes medication. I think one out of every five dollars in medicine now goes toward diabetes. It's going to bankrupt the health care system.

ELLE: I was surprised to learn that the USDA does not have the right to shut down plants producing contaminated food.

RK: Companies feel they are better at policing themselves than the government is. But I don't feel any better about that than I do about AIG policing itself, and perhaps I feel worse, because we have to eat it. These cows live in their own excrement.

ELLE: What was the scariest thing you encountered while filming?

RK: The time I asked Barbara Kowalcyk what she eats and doesn't. Her two-year-old son died in 2001 after eating E. coli-infected meat, and she's been fighting for a law that will allow the USDA to force recalls. She couldn't answer my question because she was afraid of getting sued. That's when I knew this movie was about more than food. It's about freedom of information. These companies don't want us to know how their products are made.

ELLE: Now even organic peanut butter gets recalled. What can we eat? Squash?

RK: [Laughing] Well, no. [Our water system] can be contaminated. I think it's best to support growers who care about something more than the bottom line. Now going to the farmers market is like a religious experience for me. I can't miss it

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4. Support Anti-Fur Bill in Israel

Forwarded message:

Subject: Please send message of support to Nitzan Horowitz, Israel

http://www.antifurcoalition.org/support-bill-int.html

Ban the fur trade: Support the Nitzan Horowitz Bill

On March 18th, Israeli Knesset Member, Nitzan Horowitz introduced a bill to enforce a total ban on the fur industry in Israel. If passed, the law would be a world precedent, prohibiting all fur importations, productions and all sales!

Please write to MK Nitzan Horowitz to show your support of his bill, by using the form [at the web site indicated above.]

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5. Physician Writes Of Why He Stopped Eating Meat

Thanks to author and JVNA advisor Arthur Poletti for sending us this information.

Dear Richard:

Please read these shocking, powerful and extremely persuasive publications which should be a mandatory obligation for every doctor in the world to read and
comment on.

http://cleveland.indymedia.org/news/2009/05/40628.php

http://www.22vegetarian.com/why-i-am-a-vegetarian-by-owens-s-parrett-md

These are classic publications written by the accomplished and established physician DR. Owen S. Parrot who has been trying to make as many people as possible aware
of the many reasons it is unwise to eat animal flesh including religious reasons.

I thought you may want to circulate the profound publications to your many contacts to help support and promote your relentless campaign to persuade as many people as possible to stop eating animal flesh.

This publications should be sent to every doctor in the world and leaders like President Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Al Gore, as well as everyone in the United States Congress.

You may want to make contact with Dr. Owen S. Parrett because he may be very interested in teaming up with you and your staff in a joint effort.

I feel certain that Dr. Parrett would be very interested in viewing the one hour major masterpiece DVD you helped to produce titled *A SACRED DUTY* -- which
is currently being circulated throughout the world.

I enjoyed viewing the free online version which is posted on YouTube at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9RxmTGHZgE

Richard, I really believe Dr. Parrett and you could form an alliance that could be mutually beneficial and very affective in revealing the real truth about the major catastrophic disasters that have been related to the livestock industry for years.

[So far, we have not been able to find any contact information for Dr. Parrott.

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6. Climate Change Could Influence Mid East Peace Prospects

Climate change could prompt Israel to resist Golan pullout

By Reuters

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1090025.html

[Another reason to work to end global warming]

DAMASCUS - Climate change could spark "environmental wars" in the Middle East over already scarce water supplies and dissuade Israel from pulling out of the Golan Heights, according to a Danish-funded study released this week.

The report said Israeli concerns about "food security and reduced agricultural productivity could shift the strategic calculation on whether to withdraw" from the Golan Heights.

"The expectation of coming environmental wars might imply that the way to deal with shrinking resources is to increase military control over them," said the study by the International Institute for Sustainable Development, an independent organization headquartered in Canada.

The Golan supplies 30 percent of the water for Lake Kinneret.

The report also said the rise in sea level a result of climate change threatened to contaminate Gaza's sole aquifer.

The coastal aquifer, which is shared by Israel, is the only source of fresh drinking water for Gaza. The report said its water quality was abysmal.

Israel also draws water from most aquifers shared with the West Bank and restricts Palestinian water use.

Climate change will diminish water resources across the Middle East, found the report, which was released this week at the Danish Institute in Old Damascus.

The study comes ahead of a major United Nations conference in Copenhagen in December that will discuss a new treaty to deal with climate.

"In a region already considered the world's most water scarce, climate models are predicting a hotter, drier and less predictable climate," it said. "Higher temperature and less rainfall will reduce the flow of rivers and streams, slow the rate at which aquifers recharge, progressively raise sea levels and make the entire region more arid."

The study, which focused on the Levant - Syria, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories - raised the specter of water shortages and climate-induced crises hitting the economies of those areas by 2050.

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7. Review of New Book on Religion and the Environment

Sally Bingham's “Love God, Heal the Earth”: A Review, by Rabbi Julian Sinclair

Posted: 04 Jun 2009 02:19 PM PDT

By Rabbi Julian Sinclair, as published on www.GreenProphet.com

Twenty years, ago, Sally Bingham went to her local bishop and announced that she wanted to be ordained so that she could become the world's first priest for the environment.

She was received with some skepticism. Undeterred, she embarked on almost a decade of study and became an Episcopalian minister in 1998. She went on to found Interfaith Power and Light (what a great name for an organization). Today IPL has some 2000 affiliated congregations in 26 states of the US.

In her recent book “Love God, Heal the Earth”, Bingham has brought together 21 leading voices speaking out about the about the religious duty to protect the environment. All are doers in the field, not just thinkers. Some are inspirational leaders. There a couple each of Muslims, Buddhists and Jews, and 15 Christians of all stripes and persuasions.

The tone of the essays is personal, often confessional. Each tells of a personal journey towards placing creation at the center of his or her faith and activism.

Some tell of mystical experiences in nature, others of a progression from a passion for feminism or civil rights to environmentalism.

Among the most interesting are the accounts of Richard Cizik and Joel Hunter, leaders of the Evangelical Climate Initiative for whom accepting the reality of anthropogenic climate change and the urgency of doing something about it was a struggle, and ultimately, a conversion.

Their stories vividly document the suspicion of science, of government and the mainstream media in the evangelical movement.

They show just how counter-cultural acceptance of climate change was within their churches. (This is what makes the Evangelical response to global warming politically very significant. It removes climate change from the leftish pigeon hole in which it was in danger of becoming stuck and elevates it to the status of an ethical issue that transcends party lines.)

One of the common themes of all the essays is that, as Bingham puts it,

The contributors all in different ways trace the transformation that begins with spiritual stirrings of love and reverence for God's world and eventuates in action.

As Pastor Clare Butterfield writes:

What we are trying to do is not to change light bulbs. We are trying to change people - with the assumption that they will then be the kind of people who will change their own light bulbs.

This heart-light bulb nexus touches on the unique and necessary contribution that religions can make in the struggle to avert climate change. Environmentalists are realizing that knowing what we must do may not be enough. We also need to find the moral passion to do it and the strength to overcome inner obstacles.

In the words of Gus Speth, Dean of the Yale School of Forestry and the Environment, quoted in the book by Richard Cizik:

“Thirty years ago, I thought that with enough good science, we would be able to solve the environmental crisis. I was wrong. I used to think the greatest problems threatening the planet were species extinction, pollution and climate change. I was wrong there too. I now believe that the greatest problems are pride, apathy and greed.”

“Love God, Heal the World” is an impressive and sometimes moving collection of testimonies from leaders of the environmental religious movement. It sheds light on the actions and the souls of people who are not only bringing new life and hope to environmentalism, but are also rethinking their religious faith and traditions in the light of the challenges environmentalism levels.

To be sure, the authors present their views in engagingly broad strokes that raise a lot of questions. As many of the writers acknowledge, the world's religions have arrived late to this issue.

As the book shows, they are catching up fast.

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8. Article Looks Back at Today's World From a Vegan 2109

Thanks to author and JVNA advisor Dan Brook for sending us this interesting article:

Kathy Freston

Author, Health and Wellness Expert
Huffington Post
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kathy-freston/future-shock_b_210545.html

Dateline: June of the year 2109, in a high school social sciences class in Boise, Idaho.

Teacher: Good morning class. Today we are remembering what life was like in the days of Barack Hussein Obama, the first African American President of the United States. As you all know, President Obama did many [positive] things …

SNIP

Some argue that he saved the world from impending ecological collapse by appointing key agricultural and scientific people that made critical recommendations.

A hundred years ago, you may find this hard to believe, but the entire world was behaving in a way that made scientists of the time wonder aloud whether humans are actually a rational species. Some of the most brilliant scientists of the day argued that without changes in policy, the world was doomed to Biblical-style plagues, floods, famines, food and water wars, and other catastrophes -- all of human origin. Even so, entire industries lined up to condemn these scientists -- there was actually a debate about whether global warming was a problem.

Gasps and murmuring of incredulity from the students.

I know, we see it all clearly now. But back then, people were used to just taking whatever they wanted of natural resources, not believing that there could ever be consequences. They thought there was no end to the oil in the ground, fresh air or water, trees, or even animals. They believed they could do whatever they wanted, and so they did.

It's impressive to think about how the transformation occurred, though. Take for instance how people used to eat. Back in the day, people used to eat animals as part of nearly every meal. No kidding. But then in late 2006, United Nations scientists argued that eating meat was "one of the top two or three most significant contributors to the most serious environmental problems, at every scale from local to global," singling out meat consumption as a top cause of everything from desertification to loss of biodiversity to global warming. In fact, it was the business of raising animals for food that caused more global warming gases -- carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide -- than all the various forms of transportation put together. So even though driving those millions of big cars and flying old fashioned planes powered by oil were polluting the environment and warming the planet at breakneck speed, animal agriculture was an even bigger problem.

It seemed that no one listened, though, as 10 billion land animals and tens of billions of fish continued to be killed and eaten by humans every year in the United States alone.

Student: 10 billion animals and all those fish were slaughtered a year? For people to eat?

Teacher: Oh yes, people in the United States ate on average about 100 kilograms of animal flesh per person per year; of course back then the U.S. measured weight in something called pounds -- so it was an average of about 220 pounds. They ate huge chunks of cows -- their rumps, shoulders, and from around their ribs -- and drank their milk. They even ate the cow's baby's -- called veal -- because they liked the taste tender flesh. They dined on chickens more than anything, eating their breasts, legs, and wings. And people ate their eggs too!

Groans of disgust from the room. One student exclaims, "Humans consumed the milk and eggs of cows and chickens? Seriously?"

Teacher: Yes, seriously. But back to the environment please: It was inconceivable to people that the food they ate was what was warming the planet. Even former President Al Gore, who at that time had not yet been elected President or started his crusade against eating animals, didn't embrace the idea. He did finally see the connection of course, and he became one of President Obama's main advisors, urging him to see the full picture of what animal agriculture was doing to our planet.

At the same time, a number of scientists got together and challenged the world to recognize the insanity of funneling crops through animals to eat them. In addition to causing almost one-fifth of all global warming -- and for something both cruel and unhealthy -- funneling crops through animals also wasted hundreds of millions of tons of grain, corn, and soy. These crops were funneled through animals, wasting all of their fiber and carbohydrates, and the vast majority of their calories.

And remember, this was 100 years ago, when almost a billion people were starving and more than a billion lived in dire poverty. It's shocking to think that in such a rich world, people starved, but they did -- from those almost one billion who were not eating enough to be healthy, about 40 million people every year actually died from starvation-related causes. So that makes the waste of crops even harder to understand.

There is a spirited debate in college and university political science departments about whether it was the scientific argument about animals or the environmental and human starvation arguments that finally caused eating animals to be seen as so totally unethical, but everyone agrees that Richard Dawkins, other scientists, and animal protection groups focused attention on the scientific argument -- now obvious to us -- that other animals are more like us than they're unlike us (they feel pain, they are familial, they seek enjoyment, etc.) and that eating them is... well it's beneath our humanity and certainly bad for our health and the health of the planet.

Professor Dawkins, who was the foremost evolutionary scientist of his day, denounced what he called "speciesist arrogance" -- this idea that human beings are the pinnacle of creation -- and he called other species our "cousins," though these ideas were hardly the scientific consensus, despite the efforts of Dawkins, Jane Goodall, and other such pioneers. Of course it's obvious to us that other species have the same basic capacities and senses as human beings, but again, this was a big, big deal when Dawkins and Goodall were saying it 100 years ago.

[Judaism teaches that only human beings are created in God's image, but has many very strong teachings that prohibit mistreating animals.]

At that same time, animal protection groups started to focus more and more on the way these animals were treated. Groups documented the unbelievable cruelty of systems for egg production where so-called farmers crammed seven animals into tiny cages, as many as 100,000 in a shed, unable to do anything natural to being a chicken. They documented slaughterhouses -- it remains amazing to me that society didn't come up with another name for these places -- chopping animals' limbs off while they were still conscious.

They kept animals by the thousands in windowless buildings hidden away from view, and inside, they had people lined up to kill them, dismember them, and chop them up to be shipped out for food. There was a lot of blood, and there were horrible sounds coming from those places. But it was the biggest industry in the whole world, and people didn't seem to question the rightness of it. You can sometimes see these videos late at night on the American History channel, but they justifiably contain a parental warning, since they are not for the faint of heart.

At this point, most of the students are staring blankly, in total shock.

I'm sorry -- I know this is hard to hear. But it's important that we understand our history, and it's important that...

A student interrupts: But ma'am, how could this be? Wouldn't people get sick if they were eating animals' corpses? I mean, they were eating dead bodies!

Why yes, they got sick. Millions of people got sick from eating contaminated animal flesh every year, and thousands died. And even more shocking, more than half of Americans died for heart disease and cancer (those were big diseases back then), and two-thirds of Americans were overweight from eating this unhealthy diet. Although some doctors and nutritionists tried to tell everyone else that the human body is not designed to consume animals, much as people smoked cigarettes and denied the harm for so long, people also ate animals and denied the harm. I know this all sounds quite fantastical to you, but it's true.

Another student chimes in: But why, why did they eat animals? It seems so... gross.

Teacher: Well, perhaps they liked the taste of animal flesh [students groan collectively]. I'm really not sure. In 2008, a movie came out about a rugby team that experienced a plane crash, and the members ended up eating their team members as they froze to death. I suspect that the realization that humans are also made of flesh might have shocked some people.

At that time, it's important to remember that the very idea of green businesses was brand new and some businesses thrived as people clung to tradition. There were massive corporations dedicated to profiting from war, coal mining, oil, and killing billions of animals. You may not believe this, but people would actually call Thanksgiving "turkey day" because about 50 million turkeys were killed for that day alone.

First student blurts out in frustration: How could this be? My great grandmother was alive 100 years ago -- surely she didn't eat animals!?

Teacher: Well remember, humans held other humans as slaves not very long before that, and the Holocaust was a mere 60 years before Obama came to office. Think of things like the witch burnings, the crusades, the fact that women couldn't even vote 100 years earlier than the first black presidency. Thankfully, human beings evolve ethically, not just physically!

Anyway, about 100 years ago, a campaign began, spearheaded by a coalition of health, environmental, poverty, and animal protection groups, and supported by President Obama and his animal-loving family. Suddenly shirts and bumper stickers were everywhere, "Vegetarian is our HOPE!" And of course it had many layers to it -- the environment, global poverty, our health. It started becoming popular to eat a more plant based diet, and sure enough, a momentum was started, and within a few years, humans phased out eating animals.

It was, perhaps, the inevitable tide of history. In this case, scientific understanding met ecological crisis met the strong urge for self-preservation. We're learning from our mistakes and learning from science. We can, at least, be thankful for that, class. Don't you agree that learning from our mistakes is worth celebrating?

A young girl, silent until then, says quietly: I'm glad I wasn't alive then. I don't think I could have stomached eating an animal.

Dan Brook's Eco-Eating can be found at www.brook.com/veg

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9. Jewish Conference Scheduled/”A Sacred Duty” and Video of My Talk at the Flatbush JCC To Be Shown

Message from Kallah_2009@mail.vresp.com follows:

[If you plan to attend this interesting event [Kallah2009] that has classes, discussions and films on many Jewish topics, and would like to represent JVNA, please let me know. Thanks.]

There is still time to participate in the experience of a lifetime....

At the 2009 ALEPH Kallah, you will have the opportunity to come together with hundreds from all over the world to inspire and invigorate your Jewish experience.
REGISTER NOW!

Space is still available in most classes (check website for latest updates)

A week like no other:

* Classes with internationally renowned teachers
* Prayer services that will move your heart & soul
* Myriad oportunities to build joyous community
* Fabulous childrens programs -- toddlers to teens
* Kesher Leadership Program for Young Adults
* Healing Center to enhance the retreat experience
* Art, music, dance, theatre opportunites abound...

June 29 -- July 5, 2009
Ohio Wesleyan University 〓 (near) Columbus, OH
Just outside of Columbus OH, Ohio Wesleyan University is driving distance from Cleveland (2 hrs), Chicago (5 1/2 hrs), and Philadelphia (7 1/2 hrs).

For more information or to download the brochure, check out our website:
https://www.aleph.org/kallah.htm

or, to request a paper brochure, contact kallahadmin@rcn.com

Don't let finances stop you! Take advantage of the "First Timer", Educator, Minyan, and other discount possibilities to lower the cost. Find out more about our extensive Work Study program where participants may serve the community while significantly reducing Kallah fees (click here). In addition, young adults can take advantage of our Kesher Leadership Program which also provides scholarship opportunities.

Forward this message to a friend

ALEPH Kallah
543 Walnut St.
Newton, Massachusetts
US

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10. ABC News Special Dramatically Shows Potential Effects of Global Warming

[I saw this two hour special and it very dramatically illustrated the unprecedented catastrophe the world is heading toward. The final 15- - 20 minutes discussed actions that should be taken to avoid disaster, but did not mention dietary changes. However, near the beginning it did poin t out that much grain is being used to feed farmed animals.]

The following material is from the ABC web site:

There are a number of critical environmental issues that we could face in the future. Our goal was to approach these possible scenarios in a compelling way that would give viewers a broader understanding of what could happen to foster and encourage dialogue now.

The predictions in Earth 2100 were based on interviews with over 50 scientific and environmental experts. Much of the information on climate and weather was based on the findings of the 2007 IPCC Fourth Assessment report (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). The report is available online at http://www.ipcc.ch/ipccreports/assessments-reports.htm

We have provided an annotated script of the program available online that lists specific sources for each of the scenarios in Earth 2100 at this link: http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/Earth2100/story?id=7736882&page=1

[I recommend that you take a look at this web site, since much valuable information is given, along with many sources.]

'Earth 2100': Note from the Producer

Explore the Sciene Behind the Making of 'Earth 2100'; Annotated Transcripts
June 2, 2009

SHARE
The scenarios in Earth 2100 are not a prediction of what will happen but rather a warning about what might happen. They are based on the work of some of the world's top scientists and experts, as well as peer-reviewed articles from publications around the world. These notes are just a glimpse of the wide and diverse sources used to develop this program.

ABC News' "Earth 2100," hosted by Bob Woodruff, takes viewers on a journey through what the next century could have in store.

It is important to add that not all of the scientists we interviewed would agree with each specific scenario we present, or with our exact time frame. For example, some experts think that the more catastrophic events we depict would be unlikely to happen before the middle of the 22nd century, while others, like Jared Diamond, think that they could happen much sooner.

Though there is some disagreement about the specifics, there is widespread agreement among the 50-plus experts we spoke to in the course of our 18 months working on this show that if we do not change course in the near future, the collapse of our civilization is a real possibility.

When an insurance company, or an institution like the Pentagon, prepares for future threats, they always develop a worst case scenario -- a sober assessment, based on expert research, of the most serious possible risks. To avoid the worst, they believe, you must plan for it.

This program was developed to show the worst-case scenario for human civilization. Again, we are not saying that these events will happen -- rather, that if we fail to seriously address the complex problems of climate change, resource depletion and overpopulation, they are much more likely to happen

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11. Thoughts on a [Possible] Coming Vegetarian Revolution

Thanks to both Dan Brook and Lewis Regenstein, authors and JVNA advisors, for sending me the article below:

http://experts.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2009/06/03/meat_the_slavery_of_our_time

Foreign Policy - Wed, 06/03/2009
Meat: the slavery of our time
How the coming vegetarian revolution will arrive by force.
By Jim Motavalli

I have a prediction: Sooner than you might think, this will be a vegetarian world. Future generations will find the idea of eating meat both morally absurd and logistically impossible. Of course, one need only look at the booming meat industry, the climbing rates of meat consumption in the developing world, and the menu of just about any restaurant to call me crazy. But already, most people know that eating red meat is bad for their health and harmful for the planet. It's getting them to actually change their diet that's the hard part -- and that's exactly why it won't happen by choice.

Going by the numbers, eating meat is pretty hard to justify for the even moderately health-conscious. A National Cancer Institute report released last March found that people who ate the most red meat were, as the New York Times put it, "most likely to die from cancer, heart disease and other causes." The biggest abstainers "were least likely to die." Those who eat five ounces of meat daily, (the equivalent of one and a half Quarter Pounders or Big Macs) increase their risk from cancer or heart disease by 30 percent compared to those who eat two-thirds of an ounce daily -- a stark difference.

The environmental impact is also crystal clear -- and similarly appalling. "Livestock's Long Shadow," a 2006 report by the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organzation (FAO), found that livestock is a major player in climate change, accounting for 18 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions (measured in carbon dioxide equivalents), or more than the entire global transportation system.

The obvious solution to both health and environmental disasters is to stop eating meat altogether. But this is easier said than done. Even the studies addressing the impact of meat on the planet downplay vegetarianism, as if the authors are nervous to press it on people. Going veggie is not even proposed as one of the FAO's "mitigation options" (which instead include conservation tillage, organic farming, and better nutrition for livestock to reduce methane gas production). Nor is it emphasized in "Happier Meals: Rethinking the Global Meat Industry," a report by Danielle Nierenberg at the Worldwatch Institute. The study's author is herself a vegan, but she told me, "Food choices are a very personal decision for most people. We are only now convincing them that this is a tool at their disposal if they care about the environment."

She has a point: Giving up meat is tough, and arguing people into it is probably a losing proposition. Even with all the statistics out there about the dangers of meat, there are fewer vegetarians in the world than you'd think. A Harris poll conducted in 2006 for the Vegetarian Resource Group found that only 2.3 percent of American adults 18 or older claim never to eat meat, fish, or fowl. A larger group, 6.7 percent, say they "never eat meat," but often that means they only avoid the red kind. Worldwide, local vegetarian societies report high participation in just a few places - for example, 40 percent in India, 10 percent in Italy, 9 percent in Germany, 8.5. percent in Israel, and 6 percent in Britain.

So how will we become a vegetarian planet? The numbers suggest that we won't stop eating meat simply because it's "the right thing to do." People love it too much. Instead, we'll be forced to stop. By 2025, we simply won't have the resources to keep up the habit. According to the FAO report, 33 percent of the world's arable land is devoted to growing crops for animal feed, and grazing is a major factor in deforestation around the world. It's also incredibly water-intensive. The average U.S. diet requires twice the daily amount of water as does an equally nutritious vegetarian diet, reports the Worldwatch Institute. Meanwhile, there will be more than 8 billion people on this earth, and two-thirds of the world's population will live in water-stressed regions.

Sounds like a mess -- and one that doesn't bode well for our cattle cravings. Meat will disappear -- except as a luxury available to few -- and the ethical issues will evolve, too. In the way that slavery, once a broad social norm, later became an unthinkable crime, we can expect to see a similar shift once meat-eating disappears from our planet. Perhaps, some day, the very idea of eating animal flesh will seem as remote as the idea of owning humans does now. So if you're a carnivore, enjoy now -- before the inevitable vegetarian revolution begins.

Jim Motavalli is a senior writer at E/The Environmental Magazine

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12. New Book Promotes Animal Protection

Re. Bad Hare Days

Forwarded message:

Dear Sir/Madam,

I would like to tell you about a book I have written and had published on the controversial subject of live hare coursing in Ireland and the campaign to protect the Irish Hare. It's called Bad Hare Days (published by Olympia Publishers of London) and in it I recount the ups and downs of campaigning on the issue over three decades.

In addition to exploring the nature of hare coursing from my own perspective as an animal protection campaigner, I also describe the social and psychological impact on campaigners of engaging in a difficult and tension-wrought campaign aimed at changing public opinion on this and other animal protection issues.

As I lack the resources to mount a huge promotional drive of the kind one associates with celebrity authors, I am doing what I can to “spread the word” about the book.

I'm not sure if it would be possible for you to mention the book on your website or in a newsletter. If not, I'd appreciate if perhaps you might tell someone about it. The “Bush Telegraph” can be most effective too!

If interested, you might like to read a review of the book and some further details at the following link:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Bad-Hare-Days-John-Fitzgerald/dp/1905513674

Reproduced below is what the publisher's promotional piece has to say about the book:

Bad Hare Days by John Fitzgerald

In Ireland the 'humble hare' has been the subject of great controversy. After years of an abusive sport, which resulted in its child-like death screams being heard regularly throughout Ireland, a result was achieved.

For those few dedicated people trying desperately to save the gentl creature from the horrors of the cruel sport of hare coursing, the struggle was painful and fought against great odds. The author writes about one of the 'world's most barbaric blood sports' continuing during a deadly period for the hares, the 1980s.

His own peaceful and non-violent action and that of, initially, a few others' did arouse the public and achieve what at first appeared to be a hard-won benefit to the hare. But the hare's troubles were - and are -
> far from over. Though it can no longer be torn apart by greyhounds, now muzzled, it can still be mauled, injured, and tossed about like a rag doll on the coursing field.

In addition to highlighting the hare's sad plight, this is also a
campaigner's story. The author recounts vividly the ups and downs of his own fight against cruelty. He paid a major price in suffering as a result of being persecuted for his beliefs. The gentle hare, apart from its use and abuse in coursing, has now become an endangered species in Ireland, and this book reinforces its right to be protected.

About the Author:

John Fitzgerald is a free-lance journalist and writer living in Callan, County Kilkenny, Ireland. Before taking up these twin
pursuits, he had worked for almost a decade in a farmers' co-operative, during which time he wrote hundreds of letters to newspapers exposing cruelty to animals in general, but hare coursing in particular, as part of a national campaign against blood sports in Ireland. He has been involved for almost three decades in Ireland's anti-hare coursing movement and the present book focuses on a tumultuous phase in the campaign that had a devastating immediate and long-term impact on his
life. John Fitzgerald has contributed articles to a number of national and provincial Irish newspapers and to the popular Ireland's Own magazine. He is also the author of four previous books, all dealing with aspects of his native county's heritage, history, and folklore.

Thanking you for your kind attention,

Sincerely,

John Fitzgerald

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5/31/2009 JVNA Online Newsletter

2009-05-31T23:41:00.007-04:00

Shalom everyone,

This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:

1. New Internet Web Site for Jewish Social Justice Sources Established

2. My Open letter to President Obama Urging Him To Become a Vegetarian

3. Statement by JVNA Activist to Her Discussion Group re Eating Meat

4. Green Zionist Alliance Collection of Videos on Israel's Environmental Problems

5. Environmentally-Friendly Community Being Built in Israel

6. Powerful Vegetarian Documentary Released

7. You Can Sign a Petition That Advocates That People Stop Rating Meat

8. Global Warming Threatens Public Health

9. Documentary Considers All Phases of Meat Production

10. Quotation Provides Food for Thought

11. New Group Stresses Immediate Actions Needed to Address Climate Change

12. New Podcasts Have Interviews With Leading Vegetarian Activists Howard Lyman and David Cantor

13. New Journal on Animal Ethics Seeks Articles and Reviews

14. Global Climate Change Leadership Summit Scheduled

15. More on Weekly Veggie Day in Ghent, Belgium

16. Global Climate Event Scheduled for October 24/Make it a Global Warming Shabbat?

Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.

[Materials in brackets like this [ ] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]

Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of the kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observances, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in. Also, JVNA does not necessarily agree with all positions of groups whose views are included or whose events are announced in this newsletter.

As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.

Thanks,

Richard

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1. New Internet Web Site for Jewish Social Justice Sources Established

Subject: Announcing On1Foot: Jewish Texts for Social Justice

Original Message ----- From: "American Jewish World Service" jws@ajws.org

This looks like a great source for information and also for spreading vegetarian messages. My quick scanning did not reveal many vegetarian-related quotes, but there are possibilities for our inputs.

Thanks to JVNA Founder and president Jonathan Wolf for making us aware of this valuable new site.
------------------------------------------
Forwarded message:

As we prepare to celebrate Shavuot, the holiday that marks the receiving of the Torah, AJWS is proud to present On1Foot (www.On1Foot.org), an educational resource that will help the Jewish community apply the Torah's wisdom to the pursuit of social justice.

On1Foot is an online, open source database of Jewish social justice texts. We invite you to visit www.On1Foot.org to explore this exciting new resource for Jewish social justice education.

On1Foot allows users to:

* Search and browse hundreds of biblical, rabbinic and contemporary Jewish > texts about social justice
* Upload new texts
* Comment on existing texts
* Create custom source sheets using the texts and suggested discussion > questions

We hope that On1Foot enriches your learning and teaching about Judaism and > social justice and look forward to your active participation on the site!

On1Foot is a project of American Jewish World Service and is co-sponsored by AVODAH: The Jewish Service Corps, Hazon, Tzedek, Mechon Hadar and Uri L'Tzedek.

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American Jewish World Service
www.ajws.org
45 West 36th Street, New York, NY 10018
Tel: 212.792.2900

Copyright American Jewish World Service 2009. All rights reserved.

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2. My Open letter to President Obama Urging Him To Become a Vegetarian

Please consider writing similar letters. Thanks,.

January 20, 2009

President Barack Obama
Office of the President
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. NW
Washington, DC 20006

Dear President Barack Obama:

On behalf of the Veg Climate Alliance (www.vegclimatealliance.com), a group that represents the views of many environmental, health-related, vegetarian, animal rights and other groups in promoting a societal shift to plant-based diets as an essential step in responding to global warming and other current threats, I want to join many other people of good will in congratulating you on your historic election and wishing you the best of luck in all of your future activities.

In this critical time, when the US and the entire world face so many serious problems, we, along with so many others have been very impressed by your initial efforts to address today's urgent issues, and we wish you continued success.

We would like to very respectfully suggest an action that is seldom considered by our leaders, but one that can help dramatically in responding to many of today's threats -- that you (and possibly your wonderful family) seriously consider switching toward a vegetarian diet and that you urge the American people to also sharply reduce or eliminate their consumption of animal products. This would be consistent with your desire to re duce diseases by stressing prevention and the recent statement of Chicago Health Commissioner Terry Mason, whom you know, encouraging Chicagoans to join him in going vegetarian for at least January, 2009.

In your response to Nikki Benoit, that young lady in the “Vegan Outreach” T-shirt (http://vegclimatealliance.org/video-obama-tacklesagribusiness/), you showed that you are well aware of the issues. As you pointed out in that response, “Americans would benefit [health wise] from a change of diet.” At a time when there is an epidemic of diseases related to animal-based diets and medical costs are soaring, a shift to plant-based diets would reduce medical costs, and thereby help reduce the massive budget deficits that are currently projected and help enable you to carry out your objectives of providing tax cuts, improving our nation's infrastructure, and creating good jobs.

In your response, you also indicated that current food system is under enormous pressure in that so much grain is being fed to animals at a time when hunger is spreading, food prices are soaring and there have already been food riots in Haiti and other poor countries. In addition, at a time when droughts are spreading and increasing numbers of people will soon live in areas chronically short of clean water, an animal-based diet requires up to 14 times as much water as a vegan diet. Perhaps most important, as we increasingly see the effects of global climate change and when some climate scientists are projecting that global warming could spin out of control within a few years, with potentially disastrous consequences, unless major changes soon occur, a 2006 UN report “Livestock's Long Shadow” indicated that animal-based agriculture emits more greenhouse gases (in CO2 equivalents) than all the cars, planes, ships and other means of transportation worldwide combined (18% vs. 13.5%). That UN report projects that the number of farmed animals will double in the next 50 years, with the result that the increased greenhouse gas emissions would negate many positive changes and make it almost impossible to reach the greenhouse gas emission reductions that you and others seek.

As you know, in 2007, eleven retired U/S. generals and admirals indicated that global warming, by increasing the number of hungry, thirsty refugees fleeing global warming-related droughts, storms, flooding, diseases and wildfires, makes instability, violence, terrorism and war more likely. Hence, a societal shift toward plant-based diets could help you accomplish your desire to reduce terrorism and reach a more peaceful, harmonious world.

So, in many ways, a dietary shift by you and an education campaign to incr ease awareness of the urgency of a major shift toward plant-based diets would be a great step toward reaching many of your goals.

In addition, your response to Nikki Benoit mentioned the importance of getting more fruits and vegetables into school lunch programs and subsidizing healthier plant-based foods rather than animal products and processed foods, so we also hope you will follow up on these important initiatives.

One other thought: as you get a dog for your charming daughters, they would probably be happy to know that switching to nutritious, delicious plant-based foods can reduce the current mistreatment and slaughter of ten billion farmed animals in the US annually.

Thank you for your kind consideration. We would be very happy to provide further information and/or help in any other way. We believe that the future of the US and, indeed all future generations depends on your putting our suggestions into practice.

Very respectfully,

Richard H. Schwartz, Ph.D.

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3. Statement by JVNA Activist to Her Discussion Group re Eating Meat

Please use the material below as a model to start chats on vegetarianism with your discussion groups and other groups. Thanks.

Forwarded message from vegetarian activist Sheila:

Hi Richard, I sent your press release "Animal-based Diets are Madness and Sheer Insanity" to my discussion group and it started an interesting discussion, during which I was able to make significant points about the importance of a switch toward vegetarianism. The idea is that this latest statement is based on the totally urgent situation regarding our planetary survival, so it's something new and very worthy of attention and careful consideration. I just think one thing is important, and that is to always give sources that they can access. And to keep things positive, like not being judgemental. Backing up the statements on global warming with sources, I thought mainstream press like Time magazine is best. Giving suggestions as to different veg material they can access, like lists of veg restaurants in the city, is very good.

This was my first email to the rabbi, to ask him if I could put it in: This is the latest release of Dr. Richard Schwartz. I would like to put it in the group chat. Would you feel fine about me putting this in? The situation is getting more urgent every day vis-a-vis global warming, and we must all do whatever we can now. This statement was released in on-line Tikkum. Thanks so much,

The rabbi asked me to introduce myself before I put the statement in, so this is what i sent:

Hi Friends, I am Sheila ______, who Rebbe David kindly invited to join this chat awhile ago. I have immensely enjoyed getting the emails of your synagogue, and it seems like so much of intelligence and goodness is going on.

I have been a vegetarian for a long time. Since it is becoming increasingly clear that impact of global warming was greatly underestimated, and we are facing the most serious threat to our global survival that has ever been known, we are all, I am sure, looking for the solutions. By many scientific reports, it is clear that the animal industry is hugely responsible for the greenhouse gas emissions, especially the very dangerous methane. The solution is also very clear: that the world population needs to become vegan preferably, and if not, vegetarian, very quickly. I am sending this latest press release from Dr. Richard Schwartz of Jewish Vegetarians of North America. He has been fully dedicated for many years to showing the Jewish mandate for vegetarianism. I think the point is now that because of the urgency of the situation, it is the time not only to be vegetarian, but to convince as many people as possible that this is the only sane path. I think we could adapt his suggestions to Canada, and send letters to Prime Minister Harper.Thanks so much, and all best wishes, Sheila
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This is my initital response to the woman who said she liked the idea, but it wasn't likely. Hi Celia, Thanks so much for your reply. I can understand that habit is deep, and people are reluctant to change. However, given the urgency of the situation, if people clearly see animal agriculture's contribution to global warming, I think they would prefer to forsake meat rather than give up our beautiful planetary home. That's really how serious it is! We just have to rely on people's intelligence to realize the truth. The reason the statement is made that a true environmentalist has to be a vegetarian, is because the connection between the meat industry and global warming is so strong. And it's the one thing we can do now, without any government action, is to just vote with our forks. Yes, I want to save this beautiful planet for present and future generations. The most important thing I can do is give up meat --- I will do it! If so many esteemed scientists and people that have researched the topic deeply come to this conclusion, and the evidence is so clear, that we do not have long now to keep talking about it. So many scientists are saying that the reality is much more serious than the worse case scenario we were earlier given. Since so much of global warming is caused by the meat industry, I will not support it anymore. We are relying on people's innate goodness and intelligence to save this incredible planet. Please help by adopting a vegetarian, and if possible, vegan diet. Thank you! Best wishes,Sheila

This is in reply when the rabbi said he found a new veg friendly supermarket, and another woman said she is veg and loves to take her friends to veg restaurants.
Hi Kim and Reb David, Introducing friends to vegan and veg food is great! Vancouver is such a veg-friendly city, you can find everything, and many of the substitutes are just like meat. There is a list of veg restaurants put out yearly by Earthsave, (http://www.earthsave.ca/vegdirectory), which can be downloaded an. Also, there are internet sites like Happy Cow (http://www.happycow.net/) that list veg restaurants according to cities, and are happy to have updates. Also, there are many free resources as to veg recipes. One of them is http://www.suprememastertelevision.com/veg/ with daily cooking shows that can be downloaded free of charge. A peaceful vegan world, that would be paradise!! Let's do it together! All the best, Sheila

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4. Green Zionist Alliance Collection of Videos on Israel's Environmental Problems

http://www.greenzionism.org/resources/videos

The first (top) video is a portion of A SACRED DUTY that has environmental scenes related to Israel..

Message from Noam Dolgin, director of the Green Zionist Alliance:

This is part of a series of materials on Israel's environment we are trying to pull together for the Green Zionist Alliance website. Please let me know if you have any materials, programs, etc., that you think we should include. {I sent 2 articles.]

Thanks,

Noam Dolgin
Green Zionist Alliance
www.greenzionism.org

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5. Environmentally-Friendly Community Being Built in Israel

For information, please visit:

http://www.givoteden.com/?CategoryID=270

This is not an endorsement, since we know little about the builder, the area, etc. But many of the ideas for reducing environmental impacts seem very good.

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6. Powerful Vegetarian Documentary Released

I have seen the moivie “A Delicate Balance,” and I highly recommend it! Background material about the movie is below. It dramatically and effectively presents many insights on vegetarianis and related issues.

A Delicate Balance - The Truth is a feature length documentary that reveals the links between the consumption of animal proteins and the onset and development of significant diseases of affluence, such as Cancer, Heart Disease and Diabetes, to name a few. This film also highlights the connection between animal agriculture and climate change, revealing how the production of certain foods has a vast impact on our environment. Created by first-time Australian director Aaron Scheibner, A Delicate Balance features prominent and respected professionals who highlights their research and findings to scientifically and medically support the information presented in the film.

More information can be found at www.adelicatebalance.tv. The film is available for online viewing for only $4.95. The website is soon to launch a goal of 4000 online viewings to be reached before August 1st, in an attempt to support film promotion and social education. If this goal is not reached the film will not be as readily available in its present state. Be part of this cause by watching the film online, or set up a local screening. If you want to set a up a screening email Tara Lomax at mailto:screenings@adelicatebalance.tv.

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7. You Can Sign a Petition That Advocates That People Stop Rating Meat

I and author and JVNA advisor Dan Brook have just read and signed the petition: Stop eating Meat, Fleischverbot, Contre la viande, No a la carne

You can view this petition at: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/tell-a-friend/4302424

Message from Dan Brook:
-----

Hi, I signed the petition "Stop eating Meat, Fleischverbot, Contre la viande, No a la carne". I'm asking you to sign this petition to help us reach our goal of 10,000 signatures.
-----

ThePetitionSite.com provides tools and empowers individuals to make a difference and effect positive change through online activism. Get connected with the causes you care about, take action to make the world a better place, and start your own petition at http://www.ThePetitionSite.com!

ThePetitionSite.com is powered by Care2, the largest and most trusted information and action site for people who care to make a difference in their lives and the world.www.care2.com

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8. Global Warming Threatens Public Health

Public Health Leaders Stress Climate Risk
by Ben Block on May 20, 2009

http://www.worldwatch.org/node/6112?emc=el&m=245804&l=7&v=46f8229e94

Thanks to JVNA advisor Ron Landskroner for forwarding this material:

When seasonal rains lift from the Mali skies, meningitis often follows. Dust-filled winds can elevate the disease's effects by damaging tissue in a person's nose or throat. If longer droughts become more common, as expected across the Sahel, the epidemic could intensify, researchers say.

Connections between climate change and public health are not unique to West Africa. Worldwide, generations are expected to suffer as a result of historical and future greenhouse gas emissions, and the poor are most at risk.

Last week, a leading medical journal urged society's caretakers to better adapt to a warmer planet, calling climate change "the biggest global health threat of the 21st century."

"We call for a public health movement that frames the threat of climate change for humankind as a health issue," The Lancet said in an editorial on Friday. "Apart from a dedicated few, health professionals have come late to the climate change debate."

Heat waves and the spread of tropical disease are often mentioned as the leading health risks associated with climate change. But it was the indirect effects of water scarcity, shifting food resources, and extreme weather that led The Lancet, in collaboration with the Institute for Global Health at University College London, to sound the alarm. These threats now cause an estimated 150,000 deaths each year in low-income countries, according to the World Health Organization.

The editorial is a significant statement for the public health community. With few comprehensive assessments of the effects of climate change on health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, researchers often disagree about the extent that human-caused climate change affects health, said Susan Polan, the associate executive director of theAmerican Public Health Association.

In addition to a renewed public health advocacy movement, The Lancet recommended that global leaders expedite development efforts in the poorest countries. The advice echoes the suggestions of an independent report on adaptation released by a Stockholm-based commission at the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development last week.

The Commission on Climate Change and Development, comprised of international development, research, and governmental leaders, urges donor countries to add $1-2 billion to their total spending on foreign aid (a rarely actu alized commitment of 0.7 percent of gross national income). The funding should be targeted to vulnerable low-income countries, especially in Africa and small island states, for technical support, institutional coordination, and climate warning systems, the Commission said.

"Money is needed now, and more will be needed in the future to help developing countries adapt," the report stated [PDF]. "If we fail, [the next generation] will be worse and will be more limited. If we succeed, we will have provided them at least a better chance."

The funds requested by the commission match what developed countries already promised for least-developed countries in 2001. The voluntary agreement, however, has so far attracted less than $200 million, none of which is from the United States, which did not ratify the treaty.

"It's sad to me that the richest country, the biggest [historical] contributor to climate change, has not dedicated one penny to this fund," said Saleemul Huq, a senior fellow at the International Institute for Environment and Development,at an adaptation conference in Washington, D.C., in April.

As public health concerns swirl around the specter of a flu pandemic, Friends of the Earth International Chair Meena Raman said that rising sea levels, displaced communities, and additional climate change effects posed an even larger threat to society's health.

"The pandemic is likely to be a pimple compared to the pandemics worldwide likely to be caused by the diseases of climate change," Raman said. "Those of us who have the capacity should not be asking, 'Are we ready?' but 'What should we do?'"

Ben Block is a staff writer with the Worldwatch Institute. He can be reached at bblock@worldwatch.org.

This article is a product of Eye on Earth, Worldwatch Institute's online news service. For permission to reprint Eye on Earth content, please contact Juli Diamond at jdiamond@worldwatch.org.

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9. Documentary Considers All Phases of Meat Production

Thanks to JVNA advisor Ron Landskroner for forwarding this information:

From one of the best, all-time documentary filmmakers. Timelier than ever. [even though it was produced many years ago.]

http://www.zipporah.com/films/33
<>

Several comments on the movie follow:

“MEAT” is a study of one of America's largest feed lots and packing plants, and both is and isn't what you expect it to be. Wiseman shows us how cattle are auctioned, the operations of a feeding lot, the care and feeding of the animals, the storage and packing of meat, and even union meetings and pricing arrangements. As always he treats his viewer as a person of intelligence who can put together his own pattern of meaning without narration. And as always he leads us to probe ourselves to see how we feel about what we are seeing on the screen. Like Wiseman's earlier films, MEAT is disturbing, revealing, surprising - and masterful cinema.

-Ken Wlaschin, London Film Festival Programme, 1976

MEAT's commonplace inferno is the most extraordinary visual material in any of Wiseman's 10 films on American institutions.

-David Denby, The Boston Phoenix

Wiseman's most visually lacerating documentary…

-James Wolcott, The Village Voice

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10. Quotation Provides Food for Thought

Whenever a new discovery is reported to the scientific world, they say first, "It is probably not true." Thereafter. when the truth of the new proposition has been demonstrated beyond question, they say, "Yes, it may be true, but it is not important." Finally, when sufficient time has elapsed to fully evidence its importance, they say, "Yes, surely it is important, but it is no longer new."

Montaigne
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11. New Group Stresses Immediate Actions Needed to Address Climate Change

http://tcktcktck.org/

tcktcktck

The time is now to solve climate change.

On December 7th, 2009, our leaders meet in Copenhagen with an historic opportunity. We've come together across organisations and generations-as grandparents, parents and children-to show global support for a fair and equitable deal to solve the climate crisis.

We Say Yes!
Thanks for adding your voice to show global support for a bold deal to sol ve the climate crisis.

Help grow the campaign by telling a friend.

Be sure to add our email (web@tcktcktck.org) to your contact list so that our updates get to you.

The time is now to solve climate change.

We say yes to our leaders for bold action on climate change.
We show support connecting across the generations.
We all do our part, pursuing lifestyle changes to lower our impact.

About the campaign

The 'tck tck tck' campaign aims to organize mass public support for a fair and equitable outcome at the UN's Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 15) in Copenhagen, December 2009.

A child affected by climate changeThe climate crisis is reaching its peak. Our actions will determine the future of our planet, and the 'tck tck tck' campaign is urging everyone to join the movement to prevent catastrophic impacts from global warming.

The 'tck tck tck' campaign brings together an unprecedented alliance of faith groups, NGOs, trade unions and individuals at this crucial time to call for a new international treaty that will save the planet from the dangerous effects caused by climate change. As world leaders prepare to strike a climate deal in Copenhagen in December, tcktcktck will harness the voices of the people to demand an ambitious, fair and binding new international agreement that reflects the latest science. Time is running out. Show your support by joining the campaign.

“The 'tck tck tck' campaign is a call to action - a rallying cry for everyone to get involved. We want people to feel a sense of ownership - it's a movement in which everyone has a chance to get involved.”

Partners

tck tck tck is a global movement for a unified voice against climate change. The combined efforts of millions of people, including you, and our member organizations will deliver a clear message that we demand meaningful leadership and action against climate change.

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12. New Podcasts Have Interviews With Leading Vegetarian Activists Howard Lyman and David Cantor

New Audio for the VSSE podcast:

Howard Lyman and Jerry Cook have a conversation about the effects on the environment associated with our current day animal production. (factory farming). They also chatted about swine flu, the subsidies associated with the fast food hamburgers, transportation associated with feed lots
and our foods, effects of deforestation and a bit about Mad Cow Disease. More info at p://www.madcowboy.com/

http://h2opodcast.com/vsse.html#hljc

There are also links to three other Howard Lyman Interviews by the Animal Voices Podcast: http://www.animalvoices.org/

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The VSSE podcast has a Facebook presence. You can send me your friend suggestions and join the group here:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=40863727638 Please spread the word that the podcast exists; share with your "Environmentalist" friends. Alsowe have a FB Event for the Howard Lyman and Jerry Cook Discussion:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1104159359&ref=nf#/event.php?eid=98612497880&ref=mf

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David Cantor the Executive Director of Responsible Policies for Animals is Interviewed in English/Spanish by Susan Soltero of Radio WALO: http://h2opodcast.com/vil/spanish.html

Cristina Sebastian has submitted another Spanish Language podcast on the subject of "The Livestock industry and climate" Part 2. And next month we'll have part 3. Please make sure to pass these great audio messages along to your Spanish Speaking friends: http://h2opodcast.com/vil/spanish.html

The International Languages Vegetarian podcast has a great new podcast by Cristina Sebastian: http://h2opodcast.com/vil/spanish.html#003 If you
speak Spanish or have friends that speak Spanish have them give the podcast a listen. Also In English Cristina included this information on an important report we should all read "The Livestock industry and climate. EU makes bad worse":
http://www.jensholm.se/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/meat_climate_report.pdf

If you know of people that speak other languages please refer them to me so we can search for existing Vegetarian Podcasts in their language so I can link to them or we can create Audio Messages on Vegetarianism in their language if not exist. You can refer them to: NoMeat@h2opodcast.com

==================================

I need help with with the VSSE podcast. This podcast is a community effort and the project can definitely benefit with the liberal sharing of "YOUR VOICE." I have material waiting to be read on the Environmental Reasons the world needs to TRANSITION toward a plant based diet so please contact me (NoMeat@h2opodcast.com) so we can discuss how you can
read for the podcast. Here is more material on this subject:
http://h2opodcast.com/wtp.html

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keep it in mind that the best way to listen to the audio is to subscribe to the free podcast by downloading a free copy of the iTunes program at:
http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/ You would then proceed to insert the VSSE RSS feed (http://h2opodcast.com/rss/vsse.xml) into iTunes to
complete the free subscription process. If you don't feel like doing that just click on the individual links at the
http://h2opodcast.com/vsse.html site and listen directly from the internet or right click, save to your computer and upload to your mp3 player.

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Forwarded message from RPA Director David Cantor:

Share Freely

Responsible Policies for Animals Members & Friends!

By clicking on the International Languages Vegetarian Podcast page --

http://h2opodcast.com/vil/spanish.html

-- you can now here the April 13th radio interview I did with Susan Soltero of WALO Radio in Puerto Rico!

The show is called "Aciencia Cierta" -- "True Science" -- because I explain how our land-grant universities' meat-industry programs ("animal science") promote delusional thinking resulting in inhumane treatment of animals, poor human health, and ecocatastrophe. Science shows that humans evolved as herbivores and reveals massive problems linked to meat.

The interview runs about 25 minutes. If you do not know Spanish, don't worry -- I don't, either, so the questions are put to me in English. You'll hear the first question not long into the show.

Many thanks to Joseph Puentes for making it possible to share the interview beyond the reach of WALO's airwaves! Below are some additional UR L's reflecting Joseph's crucial work promoting plants-only eating, peace, and other vital causes.

Enjoy! Keep well! Donate when you can!

David Cantor
Founder & Director
Responsible Policies for Animals, Inc.
P.O. Box 891
Glenside, PA 19038
215-886-RPA1
RPA4all@aol.com
www.RPAforAll.org
www.ExpertsOfConscience.org
www.EatForSports.org

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13. New Journal on Animal Ethics Seeks Articles and Reviews

Forwarded message:

Journal of Animal Ethics

The new multidisciplinary and international Journal of Animal Ethics will be published in 2010 by the University of Illinois Press in partnership with the Ferrater Mora Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics. This will be a journal of inquiry, argument, and exchange dedicated to exploring the moral dimension of our relations with animals. Its aim is to put animals on the intellectual agenda and to stimulate discussion within academic and professional institutions. It will be multidisciplinary in nature and international in scope, as well as peer-reviewed. It will cover theoretical and applied aspects of animal ethics -- of interest to academics from the humanities and the sciences, as well as professionals working in the field of animal protection. The Journal will comprise: full-length scholarly articles, shorter articles, "Argument" pieces in which authors will advance a particular perspective (usually related to current affairs) or respond to a previous article, review or research report, as well as review articles and reviews. The Editors will be Professors Andrew Linzey and Priscilla N. Cohn, who are looking for articles (3-5,000 words), "Argument" pieces (1-2,000 words), reviews and review articles that have relevance to the ethics of our treatment of animals. Guidance for authors will shortly appear on the Centre's website: www.oxfordanimalethics.com

Contributions should be sent via email to the co-editor, Professor Andrew Linzey, at director@oxfordanimalethics.com, who would also be pleased to discuss potential contributions. Books for review should be sent to the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, 91 Iffley Road, Oxford OX4 1EG.

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14. Global Climate Change Leadership Summit Scheduled

02/06/2009
Local Government Climate Change Leadership Summit

On 2-4 June 2009, local politicians and senior local government officials from almost 160 countries and representatives from national governments will gather in Copenhagen for the Local Government Climate Change Leadership Summit. They will meet at the Summit with a view to engage in a national-local dialogue and to offer a partnership to reduce GHG emissions. The Summit is a milestone in the Local Government Climate Roadmap.
************************************************************Leadership Summit
On 2-4 June 2009, local politicians and senior local government officials from almost 160 countries and representatives from national governments will gather in Copenhagen for the Local Government Climate Change Leadership Summit. They will meet at the Summit with a view to engage in a national-local dialogue and to offer a partnership to reduce GHG emissions. The Summit is a milestone in the Local Government Climate Roadmap.

It is the position of local government organisations, such as United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI), Metropolis, the C40 Climate Leadership Group, and the World Mayors Council on Climate Change (WMCCC), that a post-2012 agreement should contain language urging national governments to better integrate, adequately equip and strategically support local governments in efforts ameliorate climate change and its effects.

The key messages of the Local Government Climate Roadmap are:

o The Parties shall recognise the role of cities and local authorities in the implementation of National Climate Change Strategies and Action Plans.

o The Parties are committed to engage with the local authority leadership and/or their local authority associations to provide enabling structures and effective framework conditions for climate cooperation with cities and local authorities.

o The Parties shall empower cities and local authorities so that they have the abilities, the capacities and the resources required to take necessary action at the local level and to support the Parties in their efforts to meet the agreed targets and to implement local climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.

o The Parties shall include local authority delegates in the national delegation to the Conference of Parties and relevant decision making processes hereafter.

The international sections of UCLG and ICLEI, and European associations and networks of local and regional authorities such as the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), Eurocities, Climate Alliance and Energie-Cités are also fully involved in the Road Map process. Other partners in the Summit are the European Commission, The Standing Conference of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe (CLRAE), UN-Habitat, OECD and The World Bank.

In parallel with the Summit, Local Government Denmark has developed a concept for a Google Earth facility andfor thematic stands.

Cities, municipalities and regions from the international community will be given the opportunity to present their initiatives and best practises within the areas mitigation, adaptation, clean technologies, adaptation technologies, reduction targets and reductions in greenhouse gas usage in buildings and the transport sector. The two products will be presented at the Summit and will currently be updated for COP15. in Copenhagen in December 2009 and the EXPO2010 in Shanghai.
In cooperation with the Danish municipalities, Local Government Denmark has developed a Local Climate Map, where Danish municipalities present their initiatives and best practises for a international audi ence. Additionally, and in continuation of the Summit in June, delegates will be given the possibility to visit Danish municipalities.

Source: http://en.cop15.dk/calendar/show+activity?activityid=353
02/06/2009 00:00 - 04/06/2009 00:00

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15. More on Weekly Veggie Day in Ghent, Belgium

Forwarded messages from vegetarian activists Carolin Gschwilm and Herma Caelen:

I got some interesting infos on Veggie Day in Ghent from EVA who organized it, for your reference. There are several European countries where veg societies are already trying to follow their example. In Germany, some groups like the German Veg Society and PETA are aiming at making Hamburg the first city with a weekly Veggie Day. There were already some media reports on this in German papers. Besides, some background infos on this great initiative that are worth reading, see below:

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"[EVA vzw] Tobias Leenaert"
Hi people,

The powerpoint presentation i gave in Dresden on this campaign is at http: //www.vegetarisme.be/download/interndocs/powerpoints/Thursday%20meatout.ppt
Some more info in English is at www.vegetarisme.be/ghent

Let me know if there's anything I can do. Perhaps we can try to make this into something more European or international. I could ask Dr. Pachauri if he could do something with it. He's enthousiastic about the idea.

Best wishes
Tobias
EVA

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Of course, the meatless Thursday in Ghent is a new and ingenious campaign but even the organizers may have felt somewhat overwhelmed by the huge media interest which the official kick-off created. We asked Tobias Leenaert from EVA about the background of the project and the enormous interest it created.
http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=44453&lang=en
http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=44580&lang=en
Note: We are collecting comments regarding the first official weekly meatless day
http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=44670&lang=en

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EVANA Interview with Tobias Leenaert from EVA, Belgium:
'We know that people's awareness of the issues concerning meat (and especi ally the global warming impact) is rising'

On 13 May 2009, Tom Balthazar, councilman for the health and environmental committee of Ghent, initiated the “Thursday Veggie Day” campaign, which has been organised in cooperation with the organization EVA (Ethical Vegetarian Alternative). Almost immediately after distribution of the press release announcing the weekly meatless days, an international reaction set in which even the organizers may not have expected.

We wanted to know more about this amazing new project and asked Tobias about details regarding the campaign background, its preparation and the worldwide echo.
=========================
15 May 2009

EVANA: Tobias, first of all we would like to congratulate you and your organization on this overwhelming success of the new “Thursday Veggie Day” campaign. Did you expect this enormous level of international attention?

TOBIAS LEENAERT: Not at all. I thought that, if we'd ever do an international press release, it should be now, because it really was a very new and original thing, but I never expected this kind of attention.

QUESTION: Do you think that the amazing media frenzy could have something to do with the fact that people everywhere have been waiting for courageous politicians to take the lead in meatless initiatives? Can you tell us a bit about more about the reactions?

ANSWER: We know that people's awareness of the issues concerning meat (and especially the global warming impact) is rising, and yes, perhaps many of them realize that something really serious needs to happen, and that it can only be fastened by some political courage.

The reactions we are getting are wonderful. There's not just the worldwide press attention, but there's also congratulations from groups and individuals from all over the world. People say they are inspired to imitate this idea, and that was actually our point with the press release. I think it's great that we showed that something like this is possible, and this precedent will make it easier for other groups and cities to do the same.

QUESTION: How did the project come about? Who had the idea? How long was the preparation phase?

ANSWER: Our Thursday Meatout campaign has been running for a year and a half now. We arrived at the idea of a weekly meatout by ourselves I believe, but later found out there's already meatless Mondays and meatout Mondays in the US.

QUESTION: How did you manage to get such a constructive first contact with the administration of Ghent? Was there immediate official interest or did you have a lot of convincing to do?

ANSWER: Well, what helped was that last year, we managed to convince IPCC chairman Rajendra Pachauri to come to Ghent (we just asked him, if you want to know how we did that), where he talked for the very first time at length about meat and global warming. Tom Balthazar, the councilman responsible for the environment, was there, and he got more and more convinced after that. We made contact with two of his staff who were also enthusiastic, and we suggested that they asked Balthazar if he would be prepared to officially proclaim Thursdays to be veggie days.

We're also proud to say that Dr. Pachauri got inspired by our veggie day idea and has been spreading it around the world.

QUESTION: But maybe some of the politicians are already vegetarians which helped to build up this constructive cooperation?

ANSWER: Not at all. Ghent, however, is a very vegetarian friendly city. We have 13 veg restaurants on a population of 240.000 people, which is better than any western city I know of.

QUESTION: Are your political partners mainly from the public health sector or are also experts on ecology involved?

ANSWER: Tom Baltazar, the councilman, is actually responsible for the four domains that we usually name as the four good reasons to be a vegetarian: health, environment, animal welfare and north-south relationships. So he was the one we had to get to.

QUESTION: One German paper declared Ghent as 'capital of vegetarians'. Your officials must be most pleased about this kind of PR for their city?

ANSWER: Yes, they seem thrilled. Actually I just heard the mayor on the radio and he pretended the campaign was all part of his big city marketing plan :-)

QUESTION: Are there any plans for veg* tourists who want to take part in the Ghent meatless Thurdays?
ANSWER: I hope they can read our Dutch vegetarian map of the town. It shouldn't be that difficult. But they can always contact us as well.

QUESTION: Can you tell us a bit more about the 'vegetarian capital'? How did this amazing variety of vegetarian shops and eateries come about?

ANSWER: Actually, I don't really know. It IS a progressive city though, with a very high number of students.

QUESTION: What cities have made inquiries with the idea of implementing meatless days themselves?

ANSWER: In Belgium a couple so far (Hasselt and Merelbeke). The Greens will submit a proposal for Leuven. We were emailed by Germans, by Animal Aid and Peta UK for more information because they may have plans of their own.

QUESTION: What is your advice for every vegetarian organization interested in following EVA's example to establish decisive contacts with the world of decision makers?

ANSWER: The climate is good for vegetarianism (no pun intended), but on the other hand, as an organisation you need to be credible. I think we are also the only vegetarian organisation in the world which is structurally funded by its national government (we started as a volunteer organisation and got funding later - we are entirely independent, mind you). We have worked for years on a credible and professional image. It helps to not be an animal rights organisation, as mainstream organisations and institutions are more likely to be interested in health and environmental arguments.

QUESTION: Does EVA work everywhere in your country? If not, are there plans to widen its scope so that similar arrangements can be made in other Belgian regions as well?

ANSWER: We definitely want to widen the scope and get as many cities involved as possible, and who knows, perhaps we may have a national weekly vegetarian day sometime. For now, our work area is Flanders (the Dutch speaking part of Belgium).

EVANA: Tobias, we at EVANA cross our fingers that this great initiative will flourish and expand in the years to come, and I thank you very much for having taken the time to answer our questions.

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16. Global Climate Event Scheduled for October 24/Make it a Global Warming Shabbat?

I just learned about a great global climate event on October 24th that the VCA should definitely join:
http://www.350.org/invitation
(I mean, we could all organize or join local events in our own countries and communities.)

Here the invitation letter:

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The Invitation

Dear World,

This is an invitation to help build a movement--to take one day and use it to stop the climate crisis.

On October 24, we will stand together as one planet and call for a fair global climate treaty. United by a common call to action, we'll make it clear: the world needs an international plan that meets the latest science and gets us back to safety.

This movement has just begun, and it needs your help.

Here's the plan: we're asking you, and people in every country on earth, to organize an action in their community on October 24. There are no limits here--imagine bike rides, rallies, concerts, hikes, festivals, tree-plantings, protests, and more. Imagine your action linking up with thousands of others around the globe. Imagine the world waking up.

If we can pull it off, we'll send a powerful message on October 24: the world needs the climate solutions that science and justice demand.

It's often said that the only thing preventing us from tackling the climate crisis quickly and equitably is a lack of political will. Well, the only thing that can create that political will is a unified global movement--and no one is going to build that movement for us. It's up to regular people all over the world. That's you.

So register an event in your community for October 24, and then enlist the help of your friends. Get together with your co-workers or your local environmental group or human rights campaign, your church or synagogue or mosque or temple; enlist bike riders and local farmers and young people. All over the planet we'll start to organize ourselves.

With your help, there will be an event at every iconic place on the planet on October 24-from America's Great Lakes to Australia's Great Barrier Reef--and also in all the places that matter to you in your daily lives: a beach or park or village green or town hall.

If there was ever a time for you to get involved, it's right now. There are two reasons this year is so crucial.

The first reason is that the science of climate change is getting darker by the day. The Arctic is melting away with astonishing speed, decades ahead of schedule. Everything on the planet seems to be melting or burning, rising or parched.

And we now now have a number to express our peril: 350.

NASA's James Hansen and a team of other scientists recently published a series of papers showing that we need to cut the amount of carbon in the atmosphere from its current 387 parts per million to 350 or less if we wish to "maintain a planet similar to that on which civilization developed."

No one knew that number a year ago-but now it's clear that 350 might well be the most important number for the future of the planet, a north star to guide our efforts as we remake the world. If we can swiftly get the planet on track to get to 350, we can still avert the worst effects of climate change.

The second reason 2009 is so important is that the political opportunity to influence our governments has never been greater. The world's leaders will meet in Copenhagen this December to craft a new global treaty on cutting carbon emissions.

If that meeting were held now, it would produce a treaty that would be woefully inadequate. In fact, it would lock us into a future where we'd never get back to 350 parts per million-where the rise of the sea would accelerate, where rainfall patterns would start to shift and deserts to grow. A future where first the poorest people, and then all of us, and then all the people that come after us, would find the only planet we have damaged and degraded.

October 24 comes six weeks before those crucial UN meetings in Copenhagen. If we all do our job, every nation will know the question they'll be asked when they put forth a plan: will this get the planet back on the path to 350?

This will only work with the help of a global movement-and it's starting to bubble up everywhere. Farmers in Cameroon, students in China, even World Cup skiers have already helped spread the word about 350. Churches have rung their bells 350 times; Buddhist monks have formed a huge 350 with their bodies against the backdrop of Himalayas. 350 translates across every boundary of language and culture. It's clear and direct, cutting through the static and it lays down a firm scientific line.

On October 24, we'll all stand behind 350--a universal symbol of climate safety and of the world we need to create. And at the end of the day, we'll all upload photos from our events to the 350.org website and send these pictures around the world. This cascade of images will drive climate change into the public debate--and hold our leaders accountable to a unified global citizenry.

We need your help-the world is a big place and our team is small. Our crew at 350.org will do everything we can to support you, providing templates for banners and press releases, resources to spread the word, and tools to help you build a strong local climate action group. And our core team is always just a phone call or e-mail away if you need some support.

This is like a final exam for human beings. Can we muster the courage, the commitment, and the creativity to set this earth on a steady course before it's too late? October 24 will be the joyful, powerful day when we prove it's possible.

Please join us and register your local event today.

Onwards,

Bill McKibben - Author and Activist- USA
Vandana Shiva - Physicist, Activist, Author - India
David Suzuki - Scientist, Author, Activist - Canada
Bianca Jagger - Chair of the World Future Council - UK
Tim Flannery - Scientist, Author, Explorer -Australia
Bittu Sahgal - Editor of Sanctuary magazine - India
Andrew Simmons - Environmental Advocate, St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Christine Loh - Environmental Advocate and Legislator - Hong Kong

P.S.-We need you to do something else, right away, that's pretty easy. Please forward this message to anyone you know who is even remotely appropriate. You can use our "tell-a-friend" tool import your e-mail addresses and send along this e-postcard to your friends and family:

This is such an important issue that I am planning a special press release advocating that Saturday, October 24 be considered a “Global warm ing Shabbat.” Suggestions very welcome. I plan to issue a JVNA press release, after checking with JVNA advisors. Thanks.

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The material on this site is provided for educational and informational purposes. It may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. It is being made available in an effort to advance the understanding of vegetarian, environmental, nutritional, health, economic, social justice and human rights issues etc. It is believed that this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have an interest in using the included information for educational or research purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond 'fair use', you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. The information on this site does not constitute legal, technical or medical advice.

5/24/2009 JVNA Online Newsletter

2009-05-25T02:25:00.009-04:00

Shalom everyone,

This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:

1. Happy Shevuot

2. Israeli Rabbi a Long Time Vegetarian Advocate

3. Report from Responsible Policies for Animals

4. Analysis of Health Benefits of Vegetarianism

5. Update on Rubashkins and Agriprocessors

6. Wonderful New Documentary Links Animal-based Diets to Global Warming

7. Chabad (Lubavitch) Event Involves a Vegan Dinner

8. National Geographic Considers The Coming Food Crisis

9. Green Week Conference 2009 Scheduled

10. Report: Global Warming Far Worse Than Expected

11. Action Alert: Help End Mass Pig Slaughter in Egypt

Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.

[Materials in brackets like this [ ] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]

Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of the kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observances, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in. Also, JVNA does not necessarily agree with all positions of groups whose views are included or whose events are announced in this newsletter.

As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.

Thanks,

Richard

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1. Happy Shevuot

Shavuot begins at sundown on Thursday, May 28.

Because the holiday commemorates the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai, many Jews stay up all of Thursday night hearing talks on Torah-related material and discussing the Torah. What a great time to consider that G-d's first dietary regimen was vegan (Genesis 1:29) and that there are many Torah teachings on treating animals with compassion, taking care of our health, preserving the environment, helping hungry people and other vegetarian-related issues. For more information, please see my article “Shavuot and Vegetarianism” in the holidays section at JewishVeg.com/Schwartz, and please consider using the points in the article for your own talking points. Thanks.

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2. Israeli Rabbi a Long Time Vegetarian Advocate

Forwarded message from the blog “heeb'n'vegan”

http://heebnvegan.blogspot.com/2009/05/rabbi-sperber-on-jewish-case-for.html

Michael Croland

5.16.2009

Rabbi Sperber on the Jewish Case for Vegetarianism

This afternoon, I saw Rabbi Daniel Sperber, a Bar Ilan University professor and the rabbi of Congregation Menachem Zion in the Old City of Jerusalem, speak in Manhattan. He focused primarily on why Jewish teachings point toward vegetarianism, saying he would've needed a whole course to give a full overview of the scheduled topic, "Kosher & Food Ethics: Exploring vegetarianism, meat production, fair labor and other food related ethical issues."

Rabbi Sperber focused on how meat consumption in the Jewish tradition is often portrayed as a concession that strays from the vegetarian ideal. He discussed the vegetarian diet in the Garden of Eden, the "lustful" context of meat cravings, and the vision of vegetarianism after the Messiah comes. He also mentioned Maimonides' view that the pain and anguish of animals are the same as the pain and anguish of humans. Rabbi Sperber said that people who know about animals' horrors in industrialized agriculture should be vegetarian, and those who don't should find out.

During both his talk and the Q&A, Rabbi Sperber brought up some other issues related to ethical eating. He described eating as a sacrament and suggested that the food we eat and all aspects of its production should adhere to our highest ethical standards. He briefly touched on the health and environmental benefits of vegetarianism, and he alluded to Uri L'Tzedek's new Tav HaYosher program and Magen Tzedek (formerly known as Hekhsher Tzedek) to say that we should also consider the treatment of workers as part of a comprehensive ethical food framework.

I asked Rabbi Sperber what steps people could take to learn more and transition toward an ethical diet. He suggested reading Rav Kook's A Vision of Vegetarianism and Peace and (if my memory serves me correctly) Richard H. Schwartz's Judaism and Vegetarianism. Ultimately, though, he said that people need to take it upon themselves to consider the Jewish case for vegetarianism and embrace ethical eating habits.

posted by heebnvegan @ 5/16/2009 11:30:00 PM

Name: Michael Croland Location: New York

I can be reached at mcroland@gmail.com.

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3. Report from Responsible Policies for Animals

Forwarded message from RPA Director David cantor:

Share Freely.

RPA Members and Friends!

Very special thanks to the small cadre of caring people who have been moving along Responsible Policies for Animals' 10,000 Years Is Enough campaign to get our land-grant universities (LGUs) out of the meat industry!

I sometimes wake up in the morning and wonder how a vast network of Earth's most prestigious and popular institutions of higher learning can persist in teaching meat-industry and human-supremacy ideologies destroying Americans' health, Earth's ecosystems, and animals by the trillions! Beliefs even more fetid than the billions of gallons of feces at hog factories and other facilities dotting the American landscape. Yet taught at universities!

Human beings are natural herbivores. That basic fact informs the 10,000 Years Is Enough campaign. Of the thousands of professors at the LGUs RPA has sent over 300 letters, 200 factsheets, and 50 books, none has refuted that or any other assertion by RPA.

The reason? What RPA says is based on thorough research and determination to serve the public interest, including the nonhuman public. The LGUs and their meat-industry partners -- in contrast -- primarily serve their own perceived interests.

Among the latest responses in the 10, 000 Years Is Enough campaign: Office of the Governor of Texas (Texas A&M University), Vice President of University of Florida, Maryland Secretary of Agriculture and State Veterinarian (University of Maryland), President of University of Connecticut. All being answered, of course!

KEEP IT UP! There is no way to eliminate meat as an institution -- a necessary objective before humane treatment of nonhuman animals can be a possibility -- without getting our LGUs out of the meat industry! It cannot be accomplished through shopping choices, common wisdom notwithstanding.

If you haven't yet dropped anyone a note in the 10,000 Years Is Enough campaign, don't miss out any longer! Your tax dollars fund the inhumane, health-destroying, ecosystem-disrupting meat industry regardless of your shopping choices. No expert, activist, official, author, or celebrity can take your place in changing that!

Have a great weekend! And thank you for your work and support!

Best wishes,

David Cantor
Founder & Director
Responsible Policies for Animals, Inc.
P.O. Box 891
Glenside, PA 19038, USA
215-886-RPA1
RPA4all@aol.com
www.RPAforAll.org
www.ExpertsOfConscience.org
www.EatForSports.org

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4. Analysis of Health Benefits of Vegetarianism

Dear Sir,
Thanks for sending me your monthly newsletters. I do appreciate it.

Below is a copy of my short article.

Hope the JVNA will find it worthy of publication in your newsletter.

Best Wishes,
Kehi.

CHANGE YOUR DIET - STAY HEALTHY.

Since the day God destroyed the Earth with water during the era of Noah and gave humans the authority to eat animals with conditions attached (Gen. 7: 17 - 24, Gen. 9: 2-5), the quest for animals as food has increased greatly; with total neglect to plant-based diets which are the original foods God created for humankind (Gen. 1: 29 -31).

Humans have improved technologically over the years and this has tremendously improved agriculture, which is the major source of food for people. But this very technology is geared more towards the growing and breeding of livestock (Animal agriculture) for the sake of meat, a diet humans desire so much, that they [fail to consider] its negative consequences health wise.

Animal based diets are the major cause of degenerative diseases like: strokes, Heart diseases, certain cancers, Obesity and so on. In fact, animal agriculture is more or less a menace to man because of its threat to mans heath and environment. Aside the negative implications of livestock to our environment through its contributions to global warming, the global food crisis, and the decline in fresh water supply; it is also responsible for the outbreak of major epidemics that have claimed many lives in recent years like; the avian flu influenza (Bird Flu), the swine flu disaster and so on.

If health is wealth and every human being needs to be healthy to stay alive, then the big question now is why would people stick to diets that could deprive them from being healthy, instead of eating diets that can make them live a healthy life? People eat animal-based diets for pleasure and not for nourishment. Eating for pleasure cannot be compromised with eating in order to stay healthy. Therefore, there is a need for people to rethink about whether eating should be made for pleasure or to stay healthy. If the decision favours the latter, then we all need to change our diet to plant-based diets which according to experts not only removes people from the risk of degenerative diseases, but can also repair the damages caused by eating meat. If this is the case, there is a need for health organizations and institutions to come up with policies that would be geared towards the reduction of meat-based diets and encourage the eating of plant-based diets which is much cheaper, healthier and a more convenient and efficient means of feeding the world.

It should be noted however, that staying healthy is a precursor to life and life itself is cherished by God Almighty (Deut. 30:19). As a result of this, living a healthy life is imperative to every person and the best way we can achieve this is by changing our diet to plant-based diets, a diet God has provided for humanity from ages ago to keep us healthy at all times (Daniel 1:8-16, Ezek. 4:9)

NWAKA, Kehi Harry

Email: chriskehis@yahoo.com

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5. Update on Rubashkins and Agriprocessors

Thanks to JVNA Secretary/Treasurer John Diamond and JVNA advisor Lewis Regenstein for sending us recent information about this:

http://jta.org/news/article/2009/05/18/1005226/new-charges-filed-against-rubashkin

New charges filed against Rubashkin
May 18, 2009

NEW YORK (JTA) -- Federal prosecutors filed a new 142-count criminal indictment against former managers of Agriprocessors.
The new filing, made Friday in U.S. District Court for Northern Iowa, replaces a 79-count indictment issued in March. Former plant manager Sholom Rubashkin and fellow managers now face 71 counts of harboring illegal immigrants, in addition to other charges.

Prosecutors dropped identity theft charges in the wake of a U.S. Supreme Court decision that would have made conviction on those charges difficult to achieve.
Agriprocessors was the nation's largest producer of kosher meat before a massive federal immigration raid last year resulted in the arrest of hundreds of its employees and set off a cascade of legal problems for the company, which ultimately filed for bankruptcy protection.

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6. Wonderful New Documentary Links Animal-based Diets to Global Warming

Forwarded message from Leron:

Vegan: the fastest way to cool our planet.

check it out
http://tinyurl.com/veganpart1of4
http://tinyurl.com/veganpart2

all the best,

leron

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7. Chabad (Lubavitch) Event Involves a Vegan Dinner

campus life
Student Center's Shabbat Dinner Goes Vegan

http://www.chabad.org/news/article_cdo/aid/903001/jewish/Meat-Free-at-UK-Campus-Center.htm

In the English town of Brighton, known for its liberal air, the local Jewish Student Center provided guests with a completely vegan Shabbat dinner.
By Daniel Lowe, Chabaduk.com
May 21, 2009 8:30 AM

Edith Einhorn couldn't believe what she was hearing. Her granddaughter, who co-directs a Jewish Student Center on England's South Coast, would be doing the unthinkable: Making a Friday night meal without meat, or eggs, or any animal product of any kind.

“What? No gefilte fish? No chicken soup? Challah without eggs?” exclaimed the incredulous grandmother, who lives in Israel. “No kugel? No matza balls?!”

But according to students, the first-ever vegan Shabbat at the Dubbed by some as the “San Francisco of Britain,” the seaside town of Brighton is renowned for its liberal, laidback atmosphere. It's a haven for vegetarians and vegans - who shun all manner of fish, meat, dairy and egg products - boasting more than 50 establishments that cater to the community, from restaurants and cafes to pubs, specialist retailers and even a hotel.

And for kosher food of the vegetarian and vegan variety, more and more people are turning to the Lewises and their Chabad on Campus of South Coast, which serves the University of Sussex and schools from Canterbury to Southampton.

“Vegetarianism and veganism is probably accepted here more than anywhere in the United Kingdom,” attested Zalman Lewis, “perhaps even more than anywhere else in Europe.”

Every week, the Chabad House hosts Shabbat meals for between 15 and 30 students, who each have varying dietary requirements.

“Up to a quarter or more of our guests each week are vegetarians or vegans,” estimated Lewis, who makes sure that everyone has enough to eat.

Jewish law states that in order to ensure the proper Shabbat atmosphere, a person should enjoy their food. In that light, there is no explicit requirement that people eat meat or fish if to do so would cause displeasure. Challenging Menu

Robin Bagon, a student who swore off meat at the age of 16 and gave up all animal products three years ago, moved to Brighton for its vegan-friendly culture.

“Brighton isn't a bad place at all to be vegan,” said Robin, who attended last week's Shabbat dinner. “I usually have my own Friday night meal. Most of the time, it's vegetarian, whether at my house or with other friends. And when I go to Zalman and Shterna's, they're accommodating in terms of providing a vegetarian or vegan option.”

“We usually have a vegetable soup as an alternative to chicken soup and we have soya or tofu products for the main course,” said Shterna Lewis.

Still, to make an entirely vegan Friday night dinner can pose some challenges, especially for those accustomed to the traditional fare of gefilte fish, chicken soup and schnitzel. Even challah, kugel and matzah balls typically contain eggs.
But after consultations with their students, the Lewises decided to rise to the challenge as a way to expand their offerings for Jews of all stripes. The right moment came last week, after back-to-back Lag B'Omer barbeques showcasing grilled meats.

“After hosting the barbeques, it was unanimously decided to hold a vegan Friday night meal the next Shabbat,” said Zalman Lewis.

The “post-Lag B'Omer detox” also happened to coincide with the United Kingdom's National Vegetarian Week, which the Vegetarian Society established in 1992 to promote meat-free cuisine.

The rabbi said that the lack of meat wasn't a problem.

“But we had to get over the idea of not being able to use any eggs,” he said.

“Instead of regular challah,” stated Shterna Lewis, “I baked a water challah that was as good as any other. We ate it with plenty of hummus, chickpea salad, potato salad and lettuce salad in place of the usual fish course.”

The dinner progressed with zucchini soup filling in for the chicken-based variety. The soup was followed by rice, mushroom knish, roasted vegetables and tomato salad. An egg-free apple crisp was served as dessert.

“I think it was easier than making a regular Friday night meal,” reported Lewis.

Bagon left thrilled, and full.

“My veganism doesn't clash with my Judaism,” he asserted. “In fact, the Garden of Eden was a vegetarian paradise; no one was permitted to eat meat until after the flood.

“The vegan night was great. The food was brilliant,” continued Bagon. “I felt the night brought us one step closer to bringing in the Messianic era.”

Zalman Lewis might not have had such a spiritual reaction to the meat-free dining, but he said that they want students to feel that the Chabad House is a home away from home.

“We'll have to wait for Moshiach to come to discover what our diet will be,” he quipped. “For the time being, we're planning our next meaty barbeque. But we decided we'll do something like this on a regular basis.”

By Daniel Lowe, Chabaduk.com More articles... |

This article has been syndicated to Chabad.org by our sister site, chabad.edu

The content on this page is copyrighted by the author, publisher and/or Chabad.org, and is produced by Chabad.org. If you enjoyed this article, we encourage you to distribute it further, provided that you comply with the copyright policy.

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8. National Geographic Considers The Coming Food Crisis

Thanks to Jonathan Wolf, founder and first president of JVNA, for letting us know about this important article:

http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2009/06/cheap-food/bourne-text

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9. Green Week Conference 2009 Scheduled

Forwarded message:

Welcome to the Green Week Conference 2009

The biggest annual conference on European environment policy turns the spotlight this year on the multi-faceted challenges of climate change.

* What are the prospects for reaching a new global deal to control climate change at the crucial Copenhagen conference in December?
* How can we best 'climate-proof' our economies against the impacts of present and future climate change?
* How can we create a carbon-free society by 2050?
* How can we ensure action to address climate change best serves conservation of the ecosystems that support life on Earth?

These are some of the many questions Green Week 2009 will be examining in three days of discussion and debate between high-level speakers from Europe and beyond.

Green Week is a unique opportunity for exchanges of experience and good practice.

Some 3,500 participants are expected from EU institutions, business and industry, non-governmental organisations, public authorities, the scientific community and academia

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/greenweek/home.html

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10. Report: Global Warming Far Worse Than Expected

Global warming may be twice as bad as previously expected

By Doyle Rice, USA TODAY

Global warming will be twice as severe as previous estimates indicate, according to a new study published this month in the Journal of Climate, a publication of the American Meteorological Society.

The research, conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), predicts a 90% probability that worldwide surface temperatures will rise more than 9 degrees (F) by 2100, compared to a previous 2003 MIT study that forecast a rise of just over 4 degrees.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in 2007 forecast a temperature rise of anywhere from 2 to 11 degrees by 2100 based on a variety of different greenhouse-gas-emissions scenarios.

The projections in the MIT study were done using 400 applications of a computer model, which MIT says is the most comprehensive and sophisticated climate model to date. The model looks at the effects of economic activity as well as the effects of atmospheric, oceanic and biological systems.

The improved economic modeling and newer economic data (which gives a lower chance of reduced emissions) are among the major changes from the 2003 model application.

Unless greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, "there is significantly more risk than we previously estimated," says study co-author Ronald Prinn of MIT. "There's no way the world can or should take these risks."

"The results appear to be credible and quantify a certain unease many scientists have on the real magnitude of the climate problem ahead of us, one that is not adequately appreciated by most politicians," writes Kevin Trenberth, a senior scientist at the National Center for Atmospheric Research and an IPCC lead author, in an e-mail.

"The difficulty of dealing with inertia in human systems and infrastructure, and the lack of current incentives and a global approach to the problem means that reducing emissions will be a major challenge for humanity," he added.

Funding for the study came in part in grants from the U.S. Department of Energy and by sponsors of MIT's Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change.

"To my knowledge, this is indeed the most exhaustive end-to-end analysis of climate change impacts yet performed," notes Michael Mann, a climatologist at Penn State University and also an IPCC author. "The results of the analysis are sobering, namely that we face a monumental challenge if we are to avoid dangerous interference with the climate system."

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11. Action Alert: Help End Mass Pig Slaughter in Egypt

Thanks to “A Sacred Duty” producer and JVNA advisor Lionel Friedberg for making us aware of this issue:

Please go to the following website and sign a letter urging Egypt's government to immediately cease the horrifically cruel mass culling of pigs.
Please!
Go to:

http://eactivist.com/eacampaign/clientcampaign.do?ea.client.id=24&ea.campaign.id=3557&ea.param.extras=Organization:WSPAUK

It is DEEPLY disturbing, please act urgently, it will take you only few minutes

Please note the attachment with template letter (please modify for stronger impact). Please see email below.

Please visit also the link http://www.varkensinnood.nl/forms/default.aspx?fid=17
you will find there a petition which is sent immediately to EGYPT Embassy in The Hague

-thank you for caring
Teresa

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The material on this site is provided for educational and informational purposes. It may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. It is being made available in an effort to advance the understanding of vegetarian, environmental, nutritional, health, economic, social justice and human rights issues etc. It is believed that this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have an interest in using the included information for educational or research purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond 'fair use', you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. The information on this site does not constitute legal, technical or medical advice.

5/17/2009 JVNA Online Newsletter

2009-05-21T00:51:00.014-04:00

Shalom everyone,

This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:

1. Veggie Pride Parade Today/JVNA Taking Part

2. Shavuot and Vegetarianism

3. JVNA Advisor Rabbi Yonassan Gershom Publishes Book That Goes Where “No Rabbi Has Gone Before,” Finding Jewish and Vegetarian Connections to the Star Trek Stories

4. Documentary on Connections Between Animal-Based Agriculture and Global Warming to Premiere Today

5. Teva Center Schedules Environmental Events

6. Recent FARM (Farm Animal Rights Movement) Events

7. Gathering of Jewish Leaders Charts Sustainability Strategy in Jewish Community

8. Belgian City Plans Meatless Days

9. Challenging Article Re Denial of the impending Unprecedented Global Catastrophe

10. Survey About Veganism Completed

11. New Class on Starting a Green Business Announced

12. Excerpts from the All-Creatures.org Weekly eNewsletter

13. NY Interfaith Power and Light Initiates Campaign to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Levels

Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.

[Materials in brackets like this [ ] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]

Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of the kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observances, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in. Also, JVNA does not necessarily agree with all positions of groups whose views are included or whose events are announced in this newsletter.

As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.

Thanks,

Richard

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1. Veggie Pride Parade Today/JVNA Taking Part

As I have indicated in previous JVNA newsletters, I am scheduled to speak at this event (at 3:10 PM) and I plan to take part in the march and be at a JVNA table after the parade (at Union Square Park, North end, starting at 1 PM) and hand out many DVDs. I would love to meet any of you who will in the area today. Locations and times can be found in the URLs below. Volunteers to help will also be very welcome. Thanks.

-------------------------------------------------------
Forwarded message from event coordinator and VNA advisor Pamela Rice, who deserves much credit for her dedicated efforts in organizing this second annual event:

Dear Richard:

Following are the two Web pages that give people all the pertinent information:

Press release:
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/dept/program.2009.htm

Program guide
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/dept/program.2009.htm

Click on box with smiley face to download PDF of the program guide.

also....
HOME PAGE:
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/

Best regards,
Pamela Rice

ps: Thank you so much for your support. I truly appreciate it!

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2. Shavuot and Vegetarianism

Shavuot starts at sundown on Thursday, May 28. A sample letter to the editor is below. For further connections between Shavuot and vegetarianism that you can use for your own letters and talking points, please see my article “Shavuot and Vegetarianism” in the holiday section at JewishVeg.com/Schwartz. Thanks.
-------------------------------------------------------
May 14, 2009

Dear Editor,

Since Shavuot commemorates the Jewish people receiving the Torah, many religious Jews stay up the entire first night studying Torah. Hence, this important holiday provides a wonderful opportunity to consider if we are properly applying Torah values:

* Since the Torah teaches that we are to be shomrei ha'adamah (guardians of the earth - Genesis 2:15), shouldn't we do more in addressing the many current severe environmental threats?

* Since the Torah stresses that we should very diligently guard our health, shouldn't we consider the many negative health effects of animal-based diets?

* Since the Torah mandates the avoidance of tsa'ar ba'alei chaim (causing unnecessary pain to animals), shouldn't there be far greater concern about the horrible treatment of animals (10 billion annually in the US alone) on factory farms?

* Since the Torah mandates that we are to share with hungry people, shouldn't we address the fact that 70% of the grain produced in the United States is being fed to farmed animals, while an estimated 20 million people worldwidedie from malnutrition annually?

Let us make this Shavuot a time to begin truly applying Torah values in order to produce a more humane, healthy, environmentally sustainable, just and compassionate world.

Very truly yours,

Richard H. Schwartz, Ph.D.

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3. JVNA Advisor Rabbi Yonassan Gershom Publishes Book That Goes Where “No Rabbi Has Gone Before,” Finding Jewish and Vegetarian Connections to the Star Trek Stories

Forwarded message:

Going Where No Rabbi Has Gone Before!

Rabbi Yonassan Gershom, an Orthodox member of JVNA's advisory committee, has a new book in print: "Jewish Themes in Star Trek." It's just what the title says: a reader-friendly journey to explore the influence of Jewish writers, actors, themes, and metaphors in the famous TV and movie series.

"There's a lot more Jewish material than most people realize," Gershom said. "Plus, Mr. Spock in the original 1960s Star Trek series was a vegetarian, as is the entire Vulcan culture. His character influenced me to eventually give up meat. Star Trek was the first TV show, as far as I know, that portrayed vegetarianism as a valid lifestyle."

Rabbi Gershom, who maintains a Jewish Star Trek site at http://www.trekjews.com, has serious concerns that the new 2009 Star Trek movie, will overwrite Spock's nonviolent culture. "The film has an alternate timeline plot that essentially pushes the re-set button on the whole Star Trek universe," he explains. "From a literary standpoint, I understand why they did this. New actors are playing the roles of the Enterprise crew, and film director J.J. Abrams didn't want them to become mere parodies of the old show. But I am concerned that the Jewish and nonviolence subtexts that Leonard Nimoy worked into Spock's background will be lost in the new timeline. Whether or not the Vulcans will be still vegetarians is anybody's guess."

This makes the rabbi's book, "Jewish Themes in Star Trek," an important record of what has gone before. You can order copies in hardcover, softcover or download directly from his storefront on lulu.com:

http://stores.lulu.com/store.php?fAcctID=685386

If you order before May 31, you can get a 10% discount on print copies. Simply enter the code "MAYCONTEST10" at checkout. (Sorry, no discounts on downloads.)

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4. Documentary on Connections Between Animal-Based Agriculture and Global Warming to Premiere Today

INVITATION

On May 17th in New York, The Nicolaas G. Pierson Foundation (NGPF) will present the very first documentary on livestock farming's contribution to the emission of greenhouse gases, Meat the Truth. We hereby would ike to invite you to attend the New York premiere of Meat the Truth, which will be held at New York Film Academy [100 East 17 Street]. There will be two screenings: at 5 pm and at 7 pm. [Not positive, but I hope to attend the 5 PM showing and to hand out DVDs to the attendees.]

Meat the Truth, presented by the Dutch Party for the Animals' leader Marianne Thieme, forms an addendum to earlier documentaries on climate change, which failed to address one of the biggest causes of global warming.

Numerous reports produced by renowned scientists from the World Watch Institute, the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations, the Profetas project and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), were translated by researchers at the NGPF and the Free University Amsterdam into a concise visual document, which explains the impact of meat consumption on climate change, the use of natural resources and hunger in the world. The film acts as an erratum to earlier films on 0A climate change, such as Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth, which while convincingly drawing attention to the issue of global warming, failed to mention one of the most important causes thereof.

Meat the Truth demonstrates that worldwide the livestock industry is a far greater cause of global warming than all of the cars, trucks, planes and ships added together. The issues of the impact of livestock farming on water shortages and the unequal distribution of food resources are also raised in this documentary. The NGPF is the scientific bureau of the Party for the Animals; the worlds' very first party for 'non-humans' to be represented in parliament. Many celebrities participated in the making of Meat the Truth, such as Pamela Anderson, Bill Maher, Emily Deschanel, Tony Denison, James Cromwell, Elaine Hendrix, Kate Flannery , Debra Wilson Skelton, Joy Lauren, Esai Morales, Wayne Pacelle, Howard Lyman, and many others.

Date: May 17th 2009
Screening times: 5pm and 7 pm
Location: New York Film Academy Address: 100 E 17th Street, New York, NY
Admission: FREE!
RSVP: newyork@meatthetruth.com
www.meatthetruth.com

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5. Teva Center Schedules Environmental Events

Forwarded message from the Teva Center:

June 1-4, 2009

Cold Spring, NY

less than three weeks left

register now!

www.tevacenter.org/seminar

Join us for these exciting classes:

Garden Design with Jewish Farm School staff
Learn basic ecological design principles such as patterns in nature, zones of use and functional interconnectedness.

JNF's Israel and the Environment Programming
Experience Israel and the environment through fun and creative activities

Do You Eat Food? Jewish Food Education with Hazon staff
Consider how food is a deep seeded part of the Jewish tradition and be part of the conversation of teaching texts as living documents.

Solar ovens with Jonathan Dubinsky
Come learn how to harness the energy of the sun by building kid-friendly solar ovens

Curb Your Consumerism: Cultivating a Bal Tashchit Ethic for Today with Rabbi Kevin Kleinman
Draw on the insights of Jewish sages and commentators to explore the implications of biblical and rabbinic laws forbidding unnecessary waste and reckless destruction of resources in guiding the way we consume food, energy, and material resources in today's society.

A Divine Environment with Rabbi Jonah Steinberg
The Mishkan (tabernacle and temple) is the construction project par excellence in our traditional sources. Looking at texts that speak of shaping a holy dwelling place for God, how do we build responsibly today in a way that continues the work of creation of the world?

Song leading for non-song leaders with Yoni Stadlin
Come learn some ways to bring the gifts of music to your programs WITHOUT having to learn the F# major/minor scales.

Creating Eco-Rituals with Rabbi Jill Hammer
Come learn how to make our holiday and life-cycle rituals earth-conscious and earth-friendly

An Ecological Havdallah with Amy May

Learn how to connect to the Havdallah service in a new way using local products and spices you can grow yourself.

For more information contact Leora at seminar@tevacenter.org or (917) 939-9841

The Teva Learning Center is a program of Surprise Lake Camp and a beneficiary of UJA Federation of New York.

Thank you to our Partners:
Jewish Farm School
Hebrew College
Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center
Hazon
COEJL
With Financial Support from:

Lisa and Maury Friedman Foundation

$450 for bunks

$540 for cabin

$700 for hotel

Choose to become a certified Jewish Environmental Educator - Establish yourself as a professional in the field!

What past participants have said:

"An amazing opportunity to be in community with educators to learn, share and pray"

"A gathering of living and passionate individuals/groups whose cares and concerns include educating, environment and divinity in life."

The Teva Learning Center is proud to offset the costs of the Teva Seminar though Good Energy Initiative and JNF GoNeutral. Participants will have the opportunity to offset their travel carbon.

Teva Learning Center: 307 7th Ave, Suite 900, New York, NY 10001

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6. Recent FARM (Farm Animal Rights Movement) Events

Saving Lives...One Bite At a Time - May 11, 2009

Table of Contents

* We're Offering $40 AR2009 Rate Discount

* Vegan Earth Day Held In 130 Locations
* FARM Sabina Fund Awards 30 Grants

* Sign FARM's Petition to Repeal AETA

* Visit FARM On Social Networking Sites

[For further information, visit the FARM website.]

We're Offering $40 AR2009 Rate Discount

We decided that our members deserve a break today. So, we've extended your $120 rate to the Animal Rights 2009 National Conference till May 12.

To register, visit our Registration page, call 888-327-6872, or send a check to FARM/AR2009, 10101 Ashburton Ln, Bethesda MD 20817.

Our movement's largest and oldest annual gathering, AR2009 will be held on July 16-20th at the Westin LAX Hotel near LA Airport. The hotel offers $95 rooms, dog beds, cruelty-free bedding and personal care products, $6 parking, vegan cuisine, magnificent meeting and exhibit space, and free internet and airport shuttle.

90 presenters from 60 groups, representing every segment of our movement, have already signed up, and a dozen more are expected. They include Lorri Bauston, Karen Davis, Elliot Katz, Elizabeth Kucinich, Erik Marcus, Anthony Marr, Michael Mountain, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, Will Tuttle, and Paul Watson.

Visit our website and take advantage of discounted registration rate.

Vegan Earth Day Held In 130 Locations

FARM's network of grassroots volunteers carried the vegan Earth Day message to more than 130 communities in U.S. and Canada. We mailed more than 100 full Earth Day event packs complete with handouts, stickers, signup sheets and more. 20,000 of our colorful postcard-sized handouts were distributed.

In the nation's capital, FARM staff and volunteers teamed up with the Vegetarian Society of DC to educate thousands of attendees at a massive Earth Day festival and free concert on the National Mall. We had large signs, lots of hand-outs, and sign-up sheets. We scored a TV interview and a mention in The Washington Post.

Check out the Vegan Earth Day 2009 Report with photos.

FARM Sabina Fund Awards 30 Grants

This winter, FARM's Sabina Fund awarded grants to 30 groups in 10 countries in response to a couple hundred proposals. The countries included India (13 grants), Uganda (4), Kenya (2), Israel (3), U.S. (3), Congo, Croatia, Nigeria, Peru, and Rwanda.

One of the U.S. grants was to promote vegan eating in California, in the wake of last fall's Prop 2 campaign that improved conditions for farmed animals. Another funded a huge vegan festival in Croatia's capital. All projects involve promoting vegan eating and respect for animals in local communities through lectures, rallies, marches, leafleting, and street theater.

Since 1999, the FARM Sabina Fund has awarded small grants to some 150 grassroots groups promoting a plant-based diet and respect for animals in more than 30 countries. The Fund honors the memory of FARM President Alex Hershaft's mother, Sabina.

To find out more, visit the FARM Sabina Fund website.

Sign FARM's Petition to Repeal AETA

The Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act (AETA) was enacted by Congress with little debate or awareness at the behest of the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries and signed by President Bush in late 2006. Despite its name, the Act is framed so broadly that it classifies almost any form of social activism, including picketing, street theater, and civil disobedience, as a terrorist act. It is very likely in violation of the First Amendment.

Tell the leaders in the Judiciary Committees, charged with protecting our civil liberties and the rule of law, to take the initiative in repealing this disastrous legislation. Sign FARM's petition posted on Change.org.

Sign the petition on Change.org and forward it to your friends.

Visit FARM On Social Networking Sites

FARM has a rapidly growing presence in the online social networking world. We have a Profile Page on Facebook, where you can become a fan of FARM, and a Cause page where you can support us with small donations or by recruiting new supporters. Become our friend on MySpace, so you can stay on top of our campaigns with our blog, bulletins, and more. We are sending lots of messages to our 1,600 followers on Twitter, and we are updating our Flickr and YouTube pages. You can also check us out at Vegan World.

All this activity has been generated by Michael Weber, the latest addition to our dedicated staff. Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Economics and Policy from Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington.

Visit us on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, Flickr,

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7. Gathering of Jewish Leaders Charts Sustainability Strategy in Jewish Community

Forwarded Press Release:

For immediate release:

May 12, 2009

Contact:

Holly Shulman, Rabinowitz/Dorf Communications

(202) 265-3000

Gathering of Jewish Leaders Charts Sustainability Strategy in Jewish Community

COEJL Hosts First Annual Jewish Sustainability Conference

BALTIMORE -The Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life (COEJL) is hosting a gathering this week bringing together leaders of national Jewish organizations in order to prepare detailed “going green” work plans and to take steps towards increased sustainability in Jewish institutions nationwide. COEJL, a program of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, is hosting this two day conference to expand the contemporary understanding of such Jewish values as tikkun olam (repairing the world) and tzedek (justice) to include the protection of people and other species from environmental degradation.

Participants in this conference include Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life, United Jewish Communities, the Orthodox Union, the JCC Association and other major Jewish organizations that own or operate significant real estate. Buildings consume as much as 30% of operating costs, and the majority of those costs are related to energy use.

Buildings - their construction, renovations and operations - hold the keys to both the financial health of our institutions and to environmental sustainability, the groups say.

“We are excited about the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life's efforts to be on the forefront of addressing sustainability within the Jewish community,” said Rabbi Steve Gutow, president of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. “There is a growing awareness among national Jewish organizations of the need to understand the rapidly expanding discipline, procedures and marketplace of sustainability and this conference is a much-needed first step.”

This gathering of Jewish organizations explores the sustainability sea-change and the unavoidable choices it is posing to organizations, provides a supportive place to explore the challenges and opportunities of “going green” among fellow-travelers who understand the business and cultural conditions of the Jewish communal world, and creates a mutually-supportive community-of-practice that can drive the greening efforts of the major American Jewish organizations.

“It is imperative that Jewish organizations work together as a community to be on the forefront of sustainability within our institutions,” said Rabbi Nina Beth Cardin, general consultant for the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life (COEJL) and director of the Baltimore Jewish Environmental Network (BJEN). “We are excited to work with these organizations in their efforts and give them the resources they need to succeed in 'going green.'”

The Jewish Council for Public Affairs, the public affairs arm of the organized Jewish community, serves as the national coordinating and advisory body for the 14 national and 125 local agencies comprising the field of Jewish community relations.

The Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life is the leading Jewish environmental organization in the United States.
-------------------------------------------------------
Blurb Follow-Up On the Above Release

Sustainability Conference a Huge Step Forward for American Jewish Community

It's always an exciting moment when the four main streams of American Judaism - not to mention a dozen other national Jewish organizations from the JCC Association to the Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education - join together as part a single unified initiative. That is exactly what happened when the RAC's Rabbi David Saperstein, Jesse Paikin of the URJ Camps Department and I represented the URJ this week at a meeting of more than 40 leaders from across the broad spectrum of the organized American Jewish community for the first national Jewish Sustainability Conference.

On May 11 and 12, we gathered at the incredible Pearlstone Conference and Retreat Center outside Baltimore for two days of learning, workshops, and discussion on sustainability. This complex and often misunderstood terms has many implications but, at its core, sustainability means creating communities that meet the basic human needs of all of their members byrethinking and often limiting both what we take from the natural world and the by-products that we put into the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the public spaces we enjoy together. We came to understand how the American Jewish community can unite around the goal of building safer, healthier communities for ourselves and our children based on these fundamental principles. The Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life (COEJL), a program of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, organized and sponsored this historic gathering and is poised to lead the way toward a more sustainable Jewish community following the Conference.

We began the conversation by talking about buildings, a shared foundation for all of our organizations and the source of 30% of our operating costs and an equal percentage of our carbon emissions. The buildings owned and operated by the Union for Reform Judaism, with our 900 synagogues and 12 camps across the United States and Canada, have a massive impact on the environment. We are already taking steps forward as a Movement - through our online Greening Reform Judaism initiative and extensive programs at many of our synagogues and camps - to reducing our environmental impact and even leaving a positive footprint on our natural world.

While the topic of 'greening' has become all the rage in recent years, rarely does the conversation extend beyond how we can reduce our carbon footprint and cut our energy bills by changing a few light bulbs or turning down the thermostat. However, at the Conference we learned about how to frame all of the choices we make as individuals and communities- from transportation choices to the type of food we eat (local, organic, vege tarian, etc) to the materials and labor practices that go into the products we purchase - with an eye toward investing in systems that are healthier for everyone. This means much more than just "greening" our facilities, though that is certainly a wonderful and important place to start. When we see environmental issues within the larger framework of building sustainable futures, we come to understand that we can all take steps toward a healthier world without decreasing our standard of living or further tightening our already short budgets.

Building communities and institutions that can coexist with our surroundings is not only essential for our long-term ecological survival, but also part of a Jewish imperative to protect vulnerable communities, refrain from activities that destroy our natural resources, and ensure opportunities for present and future generations to thrive in a healthy environment. This is true sustainability, and it is an idea that all Jewish communities can agree on.

It was inspiring to join with leaders from so many Jewish organizations that are already taking steps toward sustainability in their own communities. The participants hope that by joining their efforts, the American Jewish community can become a leader in promoting sustainable communities. However, my colleagues and I understand that our meeting this week was only the first step on a long journey toward creating a more educated, aware, and active community of practice on this issue. We are committed to learning from each other and the efforts of our institutions, and working together as a unified Jewish community toward this common goal. And we hope you will join us along the way!

To get involved, please visit us and sign up for our new Greening Reform Judaism online community. And stay tuned for more ideas on what you, your synagogue, and your community can do to not just to 'go green,' but to become truly sustainable!

For more information on the Jewish Sustainability Conference, see the JCPA Press Release.

Posted by Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism on May 14, 2009 2:22 PM

http://blogs.rj.org/rac/2009/05/sustainability_conference_a_hu.html

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8. Belgian City Plans Meatless Days

http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=44460&lang=en

Forwarded message from author, teacher and JVNA advisor Dan Brook. His introductory comment is below:

“There are vegetarian cities in India and one million people in Taiwan have pledged to go veg for the environment. Let's get this going in some American. Israeli and other cities too! Peace, Dan”

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Tuesday, 12 May 2009 22:08 UK

Belgian city plans 'veggie' days
By Chris Mason
BBC News, Ghent

A poster advertising "Veggie Day" shows a sailor rowing an aubergine

The Belgian city of Ghent is about to become the first in the world to go vegetarian at least once a week.

Starting this week there will be a regular weekly meatless day, in which civil servants and elected councillors will opt for vegetarian meals.

Ghent means to recognise the impact of livestock on the environment.

The UN says livestock is responsible for nearly one-fifth of global greenhouse gas emissions, hence Ghent's declaration of a weekly "veggie day".

Public officials and politicians will be the first to give up meat for a day.

Schoolchildren will follow suit with their own veggiedag in September.

It is hoped the move will cut Ghent's environmental footprint and help tackle obesity.

Around 90,000 so-called "veggie street maps" are now being printed to help people find the city's vegetarian eateries.

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15 May 2009

EVANA: Tobias, first of all we would like to congratulate you and your organization on this overwhelming success of the new "Thursday Veggie Day" campaign. Did you expect this enormous level of international attention?

TOBIAS LEENAERT: Not at all. I thought that, if we'd ever do an international press release, it should be now, because it really was a very new and original thing, but I never expected this kind of attention.

QUESTION: Do you think that the amazing media frenzy could have something to do with the fact that people everywhere have been waiting for courageous politicians to take the lead in meatless initiatives? Can you tell us a bit about more about the reactions?

ANSWER: We know that people's awareness of the issues concerning meat (and especially the global warming impact) is rising,......

the complete interview:
http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=44580&lang=en

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9. Challenging Article Re Denial of the impending Unprecedented Global Catastrophe

Thanks to JVNA advisor Ron Landskroner for forwarding this article (and many more).

Waking Up in a Former Empire at the End of the Industrial Age
Or: Is It "Mean" to Tell Someone Their House is on Fire?
By Suzanne Duarte
http://culturechange.org/go.html?422
You can never awaken using the same system that put you to sleep in the first place. - Gurdjieff

Dearest Ones of Future Generations,

I thought you might find it interesting to hear what I'm observing of those people I know about who are just waking up to what the state of the planet is. Last month saw Earth Day, an international day of observance for the Earth. For nearly 40 years, it has been a day when environmentalists have had a chance to provide a reckoning of the damage that industrial civilization has been inflicting on the natural world. It is usually a time when print media make some obligatory gesture of recognition that humans live on a planet that we depend upon and that needs our attention. This year the statements were a little more urgent than usual, especially about climate change, which is increasingly referred to as "climate emergency."

The reason that we are in a climate emergency -- in fact, a biological holocaust, as it was identified over 20 yrs ago -- is that the dominant Western, globalized culture has been in a "cultural trance," drunk on oil, living in a delusional bubble for about 60 years.
...

Read the complete essay at http://culturechange.org/go.html?422

* * * * *

Culture Change
P.O. Box 4347, Arcata, CA 95518 USA, tel/fax: 1-215-243-3144
http://culturechange.org
Please send any feedback or questions via email to info@culturechange.org

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10. Survey About Veganism Completed

Thanks to vegetarian activist Janine Bronson for sending us this information:

http://www.veganpoet.com/SurveyResults/Results.html

Survey Results

Click on the links below [when you are at the web site with the URL above] for results from specific questions in the 'Vegan Relationship Survey' conducted by M. Butterflies Katz (www.veganpoet.com) in cyber-space, summer/autumn of 2008.

Q - Introduction to the Survey Results

Q - Summary

Q - Do you date only vegans?

Q - Are the vegans you know healthy?

Q - How does your parents/family feel about your veganism? Has that changed over time?

Q - How do people react when they learn you are vegan?

Q - How do you meet other vegans?

Q - How do you describe the extent to which you take your veganism?

Q - Is your veganism directly related to the influence of a relationship? Have you influenced others to become vegan? How?

Q - Are there any activists or celebrities that have inspired you?

Q - Has becoming vegan changed your relationship to animals?

Q - Where did the survey responses come from around the globe?

Q - Does being vegan influence how you relate to others?

Q - Would you consider being romantically involved with a non-vegan?

Q - What is your sexual orientation?

Q - A Spotlight on the Under 18 years of age responders

Q - Do you know any vegan children/people from birth?

Q - Are your friendships with vegans vs non-vegans different?

Q - Do you live with other vegans? What is their relationship to you?
Do you live with any non-vegans? How is that working out?

Q - Do you have any vegan pets?

Q - When did you become vegan?

Q - Words from Vegan Activists

Q - Highlights from around the world

Q - Survey Statistics - Extent of responder's veganism

Q - Conclusion

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11. New Class on Starting a Green Business Announced

Forwarded message from environmental activist Les Judd:

announcing a new class!

www.greenboroughs.com
Dear Richard,

I am pleased to announce my new class on How to Start a Green Business! It will be offered at Lehman College in the Bronx on 2 successive Tuesday evenings of 2 hours each beginning Tuesday, June 16 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm and continuing on Tuesday, June 23 at the same time.

Topics covered in the class include:

* What is a green business?
* What are the essential elements of a green business?
* What are the advantages/disadvantages of a green business?
* What resources are available to help you make a green business in NYC?
* Who are the leaders of green business in NYC?
* What are the success stories of green business in NYC?

To register for this course, please go to www.lehman.edu.ce and click on Browse Register Summer 2009 Professional Development.

I am looking for a couple of guest speakers to talk about their success stories especially, if your business is based in the Bronx. If you would like to be a guest speaker during the second session on June 23, please contact me immediately.

Please pass this on to your colleagues!

Green Boroughs provides marketing, networking and educational information to business owners and consumers in New York City's green sector. Please visit www.greenboroughs.com for more information. Please pass this message on to anyone you think may be interested.

Thank You!

Les Judd
President
Green Boroughs
718-530-5074
Les@greenboroughs.com
www.greenboroughs.com

Email Marketing by
Green Business NYC | 474 West 238th Street | Suite 6I | Riverdale | NY | 10463

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12. Excerpts from the All-Creatures.org Weekly eNewsletter

From: Janice Fredericks godscre@msn.com
Date: May 14, 2009 6:42:52 AM EDT
Subject: [CVA] Newsletter for 14 May 09

WELCOME to the All-Creatures.org Weekly eNewsletter for May 14, 2009

PLEASE FORWARD TO YOUR LISTS!

We know the "text only" format is not pretty, but with so many internet filters between us, we're certain this format will actually get this information to you!

VIEW the eNewsletter ONLINE
http://www.all-creatures.org/articles/news-20090514.html

REGULAR SITE FEATURES

Calendar of Events
http://www.all-creatures.org/events.html

Animal Exploitation Photo Gallery
http://www.all-creatures.org/anex/index.html

All-Creatures Flyers/Handouts
http://www.all-creatures.org/articles/act-fly.html

Vegetarian/Vegan Pastors and Churches Who Are Animal Friendly
http://www.all-creatures.org/church/churchdir.html

ARTICLES AND ITEMS OF INTEREST

The Saddest Animals in the Circus
http://www.all-creatures.org/articles/ar-thesaddest.html

Why Science is Important to Animals
http://www.all-creatures.org/articles/ar-whyscience.html

Wanna Shoot a Wolf? Come to Idaho
http://www.all-creatures.org/articles/ar-wanna.html

Tiger Farms: A Ticket to Extinction
http://www.all-creatures.org/articles/ar-tigerfarms.html

Sea Shepherd Persuades Holista to Cease All Production of Shark Cartilage Product http://www.all-creatures.org/articles/ar-seashepherd.html

Animal Nations
http://www.all-creatures.org/articles/ar-animalnations.html

ACTION ALERTS

Urge the Agriculture Secretary to Cancel this Spring's Hazing of Wild Buffalo - Take action on or before May 14!
http://www.all-creatures.org/alert/alert-20090506.html

Boycott "Hurtful Essences" Shampoo
http://www.all-creatures.org/alert/alert-20090511-3.html

Coke and Rodeo - Official Soft Drink Of Cruelty?

Seattle Mariners: Stop Using Chimps in Ads
http://www.all-creatures.org/alert/alert-20090512-2.html

Act Now to Protect Sheep from Mass Cruelty
http://www.all-creatures.org/alert/alert-20090512-4.html

RECIPE - LET NO ANIMAL DIE THAT WE MAY LIVE!

Asparagus, Carrots, Onions, and Rice with Un-cheese Sauce
http://www.all-creatures.org/recipes/aspcaronrice-uncheese.html

Pizza Sauce
http://www.all-creatures.org/recipes/pizza-sauce.html

Vegan Recipe Book
http://www.all-creatures.org/recipes/index.html (without photos)
http://www.all-creatures.org/recipes.html(with photos)

ANIMAL STORIES, PROSE & POETRY

A Deer Rescue
http://www.all-creatures.org/stories/a-adeerrescue.html

Taking Hands
http://www.all-creatures.org/poetry/ar-takinghands.html

The Baby Chicken Song
http://www.all-creatures.org/poetry/ar-thebaby.html

REACHING OUT

http://www.All-Creatures.org is dedicated to providing information, inspiration,images, poetry and articles about cruelty-free living through a vegetarian/vegan lifestyle according to Judeo-Christian ethics.

Unconditional love and compassion is the foundation of our peaceful means of accomplishing this goal for ALL of God's creatures.

Frank and Mary
Please visit our web site, and refer your family, friends, and others.
http://www.all-creatures.org
If we REALLY want God to bless America and the earth, GO VEGAN!
.
Jan Fredericks, L.P.C., M.A.
Licensed Counselor
Christian Educator
www.Godscreaturesministry.org
www.Catholic-animals.org
973 694-5155 "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord."

Be Green! Visit www.ChristianVeg.org or www.chooseveg.com and explore a plant-based diet.

"When we do not intervene in long patterns of abuse, we tolerate and support that abuse -- and our silence speaks our doctrine, doesn't it?" -- the Rev. Tom Woodward [quoted with Sign "A Religious Proclamation for Animal Compassion" at www.bestfriends.org/signproc

"But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without inconstancy or insincerity." James 3:17

"Christian Concern For All God's Creatures" DVD is NOW ONLINE! Based on God's Creatures Ministry's conference -- Great for Churches and Seminaries. For more information and questions for discussion visit www.Godscreaturesministry.org.

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13. NY Interfaith Power and Light Initiates Campaign to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Levels

A message from New York Interfaith Power & Light

Dear NYIPL Members and friends,

I'm writing to invite you to join me in signing and sharing the Interfaith Call for 350, a global petition from Protestants, Catholics, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists and people of widely diverse beliefs and spiritual traditions.

We come together to ask world leaders to prevent immeasurable harm to people and ecosystems should the world's delicate climate balance be further transformed by human action into runaway warming that will produce devastating effects on sea levels, food production, fresh water supplies, health, and life. By combining our voices we can demonstrate that tens of thousands of people around the world care about the earth, justice, and the urgent necessity for world governments to commit to the 350 goal for carbon dioxide.

I ask you to join me in signing and sharing the Interfaith Call so that the world's leaders hear from 350,000 of the world's people of faith and others, that we want them to act strongly and quickly to prevent catastrophic suffering and loss of life among humans and all beings, including future generations.

You can read the statement and sign it at:
www.350.org/interfaithcall
OR
http://action.350.org/t/9216/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=876

Please sign and forward the Interfaith Call to join with people from around the world in calling for a safe, just, livable earth with clean, sustainable energy for all the world's people.

With great thanks,

Nicola Coddington
Executive Director

Contact us at NYIPL@earthlink.net
Visit our website at www.NYIPL.org for resources to help you and your congregation take action on climate change, environmental stewardship, and climate justice

* * *

Mailing Address:
New York Interfaith Power & Light
57 Hillside Terrace
Irvington, NY 10533
US

Contact Name: Nicola Coddington
Telephone Number: (914) 231-5094

This is an advocacy action mailing sent to you by New York Interfaith Power & Light, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization.

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** Fair Use Notice **

The material on this site is provided for educational and informational purposes. It may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. It is being made available in an effort to advance the understanding of vegetarian, environmental, nutritional, health, economic, social justice and human rights issues etc. It is believed that this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have an interest in using the included information for educational or research purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond 'fair use', you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. The information on this site does not constitute legal, technical or medical advice.

5/10/2009 JVNA Online Newsletter

2009-05-21T00:50:00.012-04:00

Shalom everyone,

This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:

1. Happy Mothers Day

2. Happy Lag B'omer

3. Shavuot and Vegetarianism

4. New Review of “A Sacred Duty: Applying Jewish Values to Help Heal the World” Published

5. Revised Article “Thou Shalt Not Eat Meat”

6. Can We Build on Article “Thou Shalt Not Smoke”?

7. Background Information For Veggie Pride Parade (Sunday, May 17 in Lower Manhattan)/Please Join Me There

8. Negative Effects of Animal Grazing

9. Study Says Warming Poses Peril to Asia

10. Is Climate Change Judaism's Newest Challenge?

11. Jewish Groups Proposing Seven Year Plan on Climate Change and Sustainability

12. Blog Considers Causes of Swine Flu Outbreak

13. “Their Lives, Our Voices” Animal Advocacy Conference Scheduled

14. Steps Taken to “Green” Jerusalem

15. Complimentary DVD on Infectious Disease Threats Offered by Expert Michael Gregor, MD

16. Jewish International Educational Event Kallah09 Scheduled/“A Sacred Duty” to be Shown

17. EU Legalizes Kosher Slaughter, Pro-Animal Groups Want Ban

18. Canfei Nesharim Offers Synagogues Free Environmental Resources and Training

19. Forward Forum of Rabbis Considers Lessons of the Postville Slaughterhouse Issue

20. My Compilation of Many Rabbinic Quotes on Vegetarianism

21. Eco-Kosher Jews have Taste For Vegetarian Food

22. Mexicans Blame Industrial Pig Farms For Many Problems

Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.

[Materials in brackets like this [ ] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]

Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of the kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observances, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in. Also, JVNA does not necessarily agree with all positions of groups whose views are included or whose events are announced in this newsletter.

As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.

Thanks,

Richard

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1. Happy Mothers Day

Happy Mothers Day to ALL the mothers on this list.

Just by chance, yesterday's Torah reading indicates that an animal may not be slain in the sight of the animal's mother (Leviticus 12:28), since the pain of the mother in such a case is very great. The great Jewish philosopher Maimonides (the Rambam) comments: “There is no difference in this case between the pain of humans and the pain of other living beings., since the love and tenderness of the mother for her young ones is not produced by reasoning but by feeling, and this quality exists not only in humans but in most living beings.” However, on modern factory farms, dairy cows are artificially impregnated annually so that they will be able to continually give milk, and the calves are taken away shortly after birth, although this causes great anguish to the mothers and the calves.

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2. Happy Lag B'omer

Lag B'Omer, the 33rd day of the counting of the omer, starts on Monday evening. It commemorates the ending of a plague that killed many of Rabbi Akiva's students. For an article on vegetarian connections to Lag B'Omer by Dr. Dan Brook and me, please visit the holiday section at www.JewishVeg.com/Schwartz.

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3. Shavuot and Vegetarianism

Since Shavuot commemorates the giving of the Torah to the Jewish people, we should stress the many Torah teachings that point to vegetarianism. My article “Shavuot and Vegetarianism” can be found in the festival section at JewishVeg.com/Schwartz.

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4. New Review of “A Sacred Duty: Applying Jewish Values to Help Heal the World” Published

Please feel free to forward this review. It was posted by EVANA (the European Vegetarian and Animal News Alliance).

A Sacred Duty - A Documentary Review

Review in BellaOnline “The Voice of Women”

Lisa Pinkus
BellaOnline's Judaism editor:

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art61632.asp

Conversations around the topics of environmental concerns, health and sustainability, and the ecological future of our world often lead me to a deeper contemplation of our purpose here on Earth.

It is time - no matter who you are or what you believe in - to begin to consider the bigger picture. In a world focused on immediate gratification, accumulation and thinking of only the present moment, we are neglecting the far greater responsibility to the future survival of our world and all those in it. It is time we become accountable for the actions we take and how our actions make their impact on the world around us.

Lately, I've trained my children to use only one paper towel when drying their hands in public restrooms; we wrap birthday presents in recycled bags from the grocery store; and we are trying to purchase more locally grown foods. Little steps can make a huge difference - the primary one being the effect they have on our children's view of the world and how they care for it.

The more you learn, the more frightening it can become. However, increasing our knowledge is critical from this point forward. The field of ecological sustainability is not something new. The Torah is rampant with mandates on how to care for the Earth, our bodies and the animals in it.

Recently, I had the opportunity to view a documentary called A Sacred Duty, produced by multi-award-winning producer/director, writer and cinematographer Lionel Friedberg and edited by professional editor Diana Friedberg. The documentary is an hour long and can be viewed on the website of The Jewish Vegetarians of North America. Whether you are an environmentalist, a vegetarian, or neither - this documentary is a worthwhile view that will educate, inform and raise questions in your mind.

Ethics, morality and Torah Law. These are three of the explanations given for the imperative to take better care of our world and ourselves as demonstrated by A Sacred Duty.

What more can I be doing? What are our Torah responsibilities in regard to caring for the Earth? Is it truly G-d's plan that we should all be vegetarians? How does the way I carry out my life impact the rest of the world? Am I really that important in the grand scheme of things?

A Sacred Duty begins in Israel, a tiny piece of land, which is - amazingly - a reflection of ecosystems found throughout the world. Pairing scientific evidence with Judaism's ancient law, this documentary reveals how we are failing our G-d given responsibility to protect the Earth and all that is in it.

The concrete facts tell us that 18% of greenhouse gases come from livestock agriculture. Less land is needed to feed millions on a soy/vegetarian- based diet than is used to raise the cattle that feed far fewer people. With a world population where 15% of people are undernourished, one begins to wonder how we ended up here in the first place.

Was it because of Noah and Jews who said they needed more than fruits and vegetables to sustain them? How did the Jewish people - especially traditionally observant Jewish people - arrive at a place where we are disregarding G-d's requests to care for the land, the people and the animals? Is this not the basis for ecological sustainability and “green” living that has become so popular in our culture today?

A Sacred Duty makes the insinuation that we are disregarding essential Jewish tenets to satisfy our own selfish desires. And, from what I gathered while watching this movie, there are several reasons to at least explore the concept of vegetarianism, the notion of ecological sustainability and the Torah Laws connected to caring for ourselves, for animals, and for the world.

The first being that these principles are mandates from G-d. They are just as important as any other mitzvahs we are asked to observe. The documentary covers several of them such as Bal Taschit, a prohibition against waste; Tzaar Ba'alei Hayyim, a prohibition against causing animals unnecessary pain; and, of course, implied throughout, is tikkun olam, protecting and repairing our world.

Further, the future of our world is at stake if we do not contemplate the consequences of our current way of life - each and every one of us. Whether you are religiously observant or not, future generations cannot exist if we destroy and use up all that we have.

Let the humanitarian in everyone arise. If we are able to take simple steps to ensure that most people in this world receive the proper nutrition and to significantly reduce greenhouse gases and other “bad effects” that are destroying our planet, why wouldn't we do it?

A Sacred Duty is a great - and frightening - place to start. This film is filled with hard facts and religious principles to convince the viewer of his or her responsible stewardship required as a caretaker in this world. From Israel to a global view of the world, you will be provoked, concerned and motivated to make some change - even if it is a small one.

The end of the documentary is a bit horrific with repulsive images that may just convince some of you to contemplate vegetarianism. While it is difficult to watch the inhumane treatment of some of these animals, I understand the need to show it. What we don't ask, we don't know. If we don't know - how are we able to make informed decisions?

***
Complimentary DVDs can be requested at the websites below.

Related Links:
Jewish Vegetarians of America [www.JewishVeg.com]
A Sacred Duty [www.ASacredDuty.com]

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5. Revised Article “Thou Shalt Not Eat Meat”

Please feel free to share this article with others. It was written to try to start dialogs on the issues, but, as usual, the issues are generally being ignored by the Jewish community (and others). Thanks.

Thou Shalt Not Eat Meat
Richard H. Schwartz

Thou shalt not eat meat? Have I gone completely crazy? Am I not aware that the Torah gives people permission to eat meat and goes into detail in discussing which animals are permitted to be eaten and which are not? And that the Talmud has much material on the laws of kashrut related to the preparation and consumption of meat? And that various types of flesh products have been strongly associated with Sabbath and festival celebrations?

Yes, but I still think that it is necessary, actually essential, to argue this case because our modern meat-centered dietary culture is doing great harm to Jews, Israel and, indeed, the entire world and is inconsistent with several important Jewish values.

The world is rapidly approaching an unprecedented catastrophe from global warming and other environmental threats, to which animal-based agriculture is a major contributor. Pikuach nefesh (the mandate to do whatever is necessary to save a human life) is arguably Judaism's most important mitzvah, because it overrides all other mitzvot, except those forbidding murder, idol worship and sexual immorality, which are not applicable to the issues under consideration. It is especially important today that we pay attention to this mandate because we are dealing with the possibility of saving not just one life, but all of humanity.

Please consider:

* There are almost daily reports of the effects of global climate change, including severe heat waves, storms, droughts, floods and wildfires, and the melting of glaciers and polar icecaps.

* While these effects are due to an increase of less than 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit in the past 100 years, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a group composed of the world's leading climate scientists, projects an increase of from 3 to 11 degrees Fahrenheit in the next 100 years, which would result in an unparalleled disaster for humanity..

*Some climate scientists, including James Hansen of NASA, are warning that global climate change may spin out of control within a few years with extreme consequences, unless major changes are soon made.

* Israel is especially threatened by global warming. It is now experiencing the worst drought in its history, and the reduced rainfall the last few years has so diminished the level of the Sea of Galilee that the pumping of water from it had to be stopped. In 2007 a report by the Israel Union for Environmental Defense projected that if current trends continue, Israel will experience major heat waves, storms and floods, a decrease in average rainfall of 20 to 30 percent and an inundation of the coastal plain where most Israelis live by a rising Mediterranean Sea.

* According to a 2006 UN Food and Agriculture Organization report, animal-based agriculture emits more greenhouse gases than all the cars, ships, planes and other means of transportation combined (18% in CO2 equivalents vs. 13.5%, and some reports indicate that the gap is even greater), and this difference will sharply increase because the number of farmed animals is projected to double in 50 years, if present trends continue. Hence, without a major societal shift to plant-based diets, it will be impossible to obtain the greenhouse gas emissions that climate experts think are essential to avoid the worst effects of global warming.

* Animal-centered agriculture also causes other serious environmental problems, including soil erosion and depletion, the rapid extinction of species, air and water pollution, and the destruction of tropical rain forests, coral reefs and other valuable habitats. An animal-based diet requires up to 14 times as much water as a vegan diet.

The many negative effects of animal-based diets was well summed up by the editors of World watch magazine in their July/August 2004 issue: "The human appetite for animal flesh is a driving force behind virtually every major category of environmental damage now threatening the human future. Deforestation, erosion, fresh water scarcity, air and water pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, social injustice, the destabilization of communities, and the spread of disease."

We have recently seen an example of that “spread of disease” as the close confinement of many farmed animals in very unsanitary conditions has resulted in a pandemic of swine flu, the latest example of diseases resulting from the massive factory farming of animals.

A second major reason that Jews should avoid eating meat is that high meat consumption and the ways in which meat is produced today conflict with at least six basic Jewish teachings:

1) While Judaism mandates that people should be very careful about preserving their health and their lives, numerous scientific studies have linked animal-based diets directly to heart disease, stroke, many forms of cancer, and other chronic degenerative diseases.

2) While Judaism forbids tsa'ar ba'alei chayim, inflicting unnecessary pain on animals, most farm animals -- including those raised for kosher consumers -- are raised on "factory farms" where they live in cramped, confined spaces, and are often drugged, mutilated, and denied fresh air, sunlight, exercise, and any enjoyment of life, before they are slaughtered and eaten.

3) While Judaism teaches that "the earth is the Lord's" (Psalm 24:1) and that we are to be God's partners and co-workers in preserving the world, modern intensive livestock agriculture contributes substantially to soil erosion and depletion, air and water pollution, overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, the destruction of tropical rain forests and other habitats, global warming, and other environmental damage.

4) While Judaism mandates bal tashchit, that we are not to waste or unnecessarily destroy anything of value, and that we are not to use more than is needed to accomplish a purpose, animal agriculture requires the wasteful use of grain, land, water, energy, and other resources.

5) While Judaism stresses that we are to assist the poor and share our bread with hungry people, over 70% of the grain grown in the United States is fed to animals destined for slaughter, while an estimated 20 million people worldwide die because of hunger and its effects each year.

6) While Judaism stresses that we must seek and pursue peace and that violence results from unjust conditions, animal-centered diets, by wasting valuable resources, help to perpetuate the widespread hunger and poverty that eventually lead to instability and war.

We could say "dayenu" after each of the arguments above, because each constitutes by itself a serious conflict between Jewish values and current practice that should impel Jews to seriously consider a plant-based diet. Combined, they make an urgently compelling case for the Jewish community to address these issues.

This view is reinforced by some statements by Rabbi David Rosen, former Chief Rabbi of Ireland. He believes that even if eating meat is considered a mitzvah, which he doesn't, it would be a mitzvah haba'ah b'aveirah (a mitzvah based on transgressions). He asserts that “the current treatment of animals in the livestock trade definitely renders the consumption of meat as halachically unacceptable as the product of illegitimate means,” and that “as it is halachically prohibited to harm oneself and as healthy, nutritious vegetarian alternatives are readily available, meat consumption has become halachically unjustifiable.”

Finally, the view that Jews should not eat meat is reinforced by an extension of an article, “Thou Shalt Not Smoke,” by Rabbi Abraham J. Twerski, an Orthodox psychiatrist, scholar and author. His strong arguments based on health reasons are also applicable to eating meat and, as indicated above, there are many additional reasons for not eating meat.

Rabbi Twerski concludes, “Cigarette smoking causes disease and death. 'Those who have the capacity to eliminate a wrong and do not do so bear the responsibility for its consequences.' [His emphasis.] These are harsh words, but they are not mine. They are the words of the Talmud, Tractate Shabbos 54b.” Since the eating of meat not only “causes disease and death,” but also greatly harms billions of animals, contributes significantly to global warming and many other environmental threats, uses water, energy, land and other resources very inefficiently and contributes to widespread hunger, his conclusion is even more applicable to the consumption of meat.

For many years I have argued that Jews have a choice in their diets, but that choice should consider the negative effects of animal-based diets on Jewish teachings, such as those mentioned above. Unfortunately, this has had less impact than I would like, as the world moves increasingly toward a catastrophe beyond anything since the great flood in the time of Noah. Hence, while it may initially seem very foreign to many Jews, I think it is consistent with Judaism and essential to argue that “Thou shalt not eat meat.” Taking this assertion seriously and acting upon it is essential to moving our imperiled planet to a sustainable path.

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6. Can We Build on Article “Thou Shalt Not Smoke”?Thou Shalt Not Smoke
By Rabbi Abraham Twerski, M.D.
Jewish Action (magazine of the Orthodox Union)

[This article was published many years ago. The health arguments against smoking are also very relevant to the eating of meat, and there are many additional reasons for vegetarianism. Rabbi Twerski is a very highly respected philosopher and prolific author. Including his article in this newsletter in no way implies his endorsement of vegetarianism.]

-------------------------------------------------------

In Deuteronomy 4:16, we read, “Be extremely protective of your lives,” and in 4:9, there is a similar expression, “Guard your life.” Consequently, the Rambam [Maimonides] devotes the entire Chapter Eleven of the laws pertaining to murder and the protection of life to the fact that a person may not subject himself to danger, nor do anything that is harmful to his health. This is binding Torah law, and there is no dispensation from it.

I cannot understand, I really cannot, how people who claim to be observant of Torah, who will not drink milk that has not been supervised, who will not eat anything but the strictest glatt, and who do not carry on Shabbos where there is an authentic eruv because they are meticulous about a minority opinion - can allow themselves to smoke cigarettes when it has been established beyond a shadow of doubt that cigarettes are poisonous and have many destructive effects on the body.

Many cigarette manufacturers no longer dispute this, but they say that a person has a right to his own body, and that the companies have complied with the law by providing the warning of harm; therefore, if a person wants to have the pleasure of smoking, he is at liberty to do to his body whatever he wishes.

This is not true for the Torah-observant Jew. Halachah states clearly and emphatically that your body is not your own to do with as you please, It is absolutely forbidden to inflict any injury on your body.

I cannot understand how religious leaders stand by and say nothing. We can no longer hide behind statements such as, “One does not make a rabbinic decree by which the majority of people cannot abide.” This is not a rabbinic decree. This is authentic Torah law. With the overwhelming evidence on the danger of smoking now available, we can no longer invoke such statements as “God protects the fools.”

Aside from the devastation that smoking causes to the smoker's body, it has also been proven that smoking in someone else's presence injures that other person. That other person does not have the prerogative of saying, “it is alright for you to harm me.” The Torah does not give a person the right to waive his health and life. The one who inflicts the harm and the one who allows it to be inflicted are both in the wrong.

Hundreds of thousands of people who do not have the Torah requirement have quit smoking. There is no way that a Torah Jew can say, “It's too bad. I can't do it.” What would we say if a person wee to claim, “I can't close my store on Shabbos. It's too hard …”? We would say, “That is not an option.” The same must be said in regard to smoking.

It is nothing less than horrifying to see young students in a yeshiva poisoning themselves with cigarettes. They are at an age when it is much easier to quit this habit than after it has been ingrained for 30 or more years, and it is unconscionable that they are permitted to smoke. Rabbis and teachers who smoke are setting a terrible example.

It is incumbent on all religious leaders, rabbis and roshei yeshiva to put a stop to this flagrant violation of Torah. It is easier to do things as a group, and quitting smoking en masse will facilitate is for everyone.

I call upon responsible Jewish leaders to get together and state definitively and unequivocally, ”Smoking must stop. As of this day, no one in our yeshiva is permitted to smoke, on or off premises.” With an unyielding, unanimous approach, the scourge of death and devastation can be eradicated with one blow. Rabbis must take a similar stand with their congregations. We must have the courage to do what we know is right.

Cigarette smoking causes disease and death. “Those who have the capacity to eliminate a wrong and do not do so bear the responsibility for its consequences.” These are harsh words, but they are not mine. They are the words of the Talmud, Tractate Shabbos 54b.

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Rabbi Dr. Abraham J. Twerski, founder and Medical director of Gateway Rehabilitation Center, Aliquippa, PA, is one of the country's leading experts on alcohol and drug rehabilitation. He has written and published many books.

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7. Background Information For Veggie Pride Parade (Sunday, May 17 in Lower Manhattan)/Please Join Me There

As I have indicated in previous JVNA newsletters, I am scheduled to speak at this event and I plan to take part in the march and be at a JVNA table during the talks and hand out many DVDs at the event. I would love to meet any of you who will in the area on May 17. Locations and times can be found in the URLs below. Volunteers to help will also be very welcome. Thanks.

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Forwarded message from event coordinator and VNA advisor Pamela Rice, who deserves much credit for her dedicated efforts in organizing this second annual event:

Dear Richard:

Following are the two Web pages that give people all the pertinent information:

Press release:
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/dept/pr.htm

Program guide
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/dept/program.2009.htm

Click on box with smiley face to download PDF of the program guide.

also....
HOME PAGE:
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/

Best regards,
Pamela Rice

ps: And for your table, please read the following carefully
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/dept/tables.htm

pps: Thank you so much for your support. I truly appreciate it!

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8. Negative Effects of Animal Grazing

Forwarded message from Gilbert Schwartz, Director of Volunteer Programs, Compassionate Action for Animals:

http://www.care2.com/causes/environment/blog/free-range-is-not-t he-answer/

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9. Study Says Warming Poses Peril to Asia

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/27/world/asia/27climate.html?_r=1&emc=eta1

By THOMAS FULLER
Published: April 26, 2009

With diminished rice harvests, seawater seeping into aquifers and islands vanishing into rising oceans, Southeast Asia will be among the regions worst affected by global warming, according to a report scheduled for release on Monday by the Asian Development Bank.

The rise in sea levels may force the sprawling archipelago of Indonesia to redraw its sea boundaries, the report said.

All these changes will occur progressively over the next century, the bank estimated, giving countries time to improve their flood control systems, upgrade their irrigation networks and take measures to prevent forest fires, which the report predicts will become more common.

“Our modeling shows that sea levels will rise up to 70 centimeters,” or about 28 inches, said Juzhong Zhuang, an economist at the bank and one of the authors of the report. “That will force the relocation of many millions of people.”

Brackish water seeping into the water table in Jakarta, Indonesia, and the rice paddies of the Mekong Delta in Vietnam is already a growing problem, the report says.

Some of the 92 outermost small islands that serve as a baseline for the claims of coastal waters by Indonesia could disappear, according to the report.

SNIP

In cities like Manila, Bangkok and Jakarta, which are already stiflingly hot for several months of the year, average temperatures in 2100 could be nine degrees hotter, the report says, using data from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

“If that's the case, the cities will be like an oven,” Mr. Zhuang said.

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10. Is Climate Change Judaism's Newest Challenge?

The Jewish people's new challenge - climate change

By EHUD ZION WALDOKS

Jerusalem Post April 10, 2009

Can Judaism provide a solution to global climate change? Jews have tackled many challenges over the past millennia, but none quite as titanic as this.

This week, 55 select experts in a variety of fields kicked off their first session in Jerusalem, with the aim of drawing up what has been called a "Seven Year Plan for the Jewish People on Climate Change and Sustainability."

The initiative is being spearheaded by the New York-based Jewish environmental organization, Hazon ("vision"), and the Israel-based Jewish Climate Initiative (JCI).

The goal is to have a plan with accompanying educational materials and strategy in place by September 2015, when the next shmita cycle starts and, according to Jewish law, all agricultural activity is prohibited.

"If we don't move the world even a little bit within seven years, then it probably won't be moved. Think of the Titanic trying to avoid the iceberg. We need to start now," JCI head Dr. Michael Kagan told The Jerusalem Post.

"What do we as a people and an ancient religion have to contribute to the worldecological challenge? We're a small people yet we've had tremendous influence throughout history."

The first meeting was held on Sunday, ahead of Wednesday's Birkat Hahama, the Blessing of the Sun said every 28 years. It was the first of three meetings to brainstorm on the issue, and was attended by top scientists, bus iness people, environmentalists, policy makers, rabbis and educators.

The two next meetings will be held in New York and in London. In between, special working groups will tackle each section of the document separately.

A final draft is to be presented at Windsor Castle in November at a meeting of the United Nations-affiliated Alliance of Religions and Conservation (ARC), along with plans from 11 other world faiths.

That meeting could certainly have an impact on the much-heralded conference of world leaders scheduled for Copenhagen in December to hammer out a successor agreement to the Kyoto Protocol for reducing emissions.

ARC, a British NGO with ties to the royal family, had been tasked by the UN to organize the unique project involving 12 major religions.

Representatives of each religion have been set the task of drafting a seven-year plan on climate change and sustainability.

ARC believes that the world's religions have something unique to add to the discussion and can motivate billions of people to face one of the most serious crises the world has ever known.

Hazon's director, Nigel Savage, and JCI's Rabbi Julian Sinclair were assigned by the ARC to produce a draft document and then pull together the separate brainstorming groups to turn the draft into a strategic blueprint.

Hazon, the biggest Jewish environmental organization in the United States laid much of the groundwork for the project over the past decade, Savage said.

The initiative is just taking its first steps, participants said after Sunday's meeting. There is still a lot that needs to be figured out, they acknowledged.

Judaism has two unique aspects that make it different from other religions. Firstly, it is no central authority like the Catholic Church. Secondly, the people and the religion have a state - Israel.

"The conference on Sunday revealed how hard it is to figure out how to get it to work more effectively," Savage said Tuesday, "But it clarified that the goals and vision have to differ vis-à-vis Israel and the Diaspora.

"Israel and the Jewish people are only a small part of the whole. We can't fix the world, but we have to do our part," he continued.

"That said, Israel and the Diaspora are two different things. Israel is a sovereign state with an environmental movement. We need to further strengthen it and provide support for it from amongst US and UK Jews," Savage said.

"In the Diaspora, we need to focus on a three-by-three grid. Education, action, and advocacy along one axis, and individual, family/institution, and the wider community along the other. We need to move forward on all nine boxes, but encourage people to move forward in one or two," he said.

Theory aside, Sunday's meeting in Jerusalem focused on specific elements in Judaism that might be useful to the climate change debate, Kagan said.

"Shabbat is all about conservation and awareness. We started to think about how we could translate Shabbat principles into everyday life," Kagan said, arguing that but there were certainly lessons to be learned.

Kagan added: "They say religion and belief are supposed to be motivators - I'm not sure that's true. Does anyone listen to [and obey] religious proclamations? Perhaps we are more open to the idea that God gave Earth to the people to take care of it."

In addition to running JCI, Kagan is the author of the Holistic Haggadah and has a cleantech startup called Algaenesis, which focuses on using algae for health products and biofuel purposes.

Jeremy Benstein, deputy director of Heschel Center - an NGO working in Israel towards the molding of strong leadership and the promotion of environmental education - pointed to a few areas where Judaism specifically had something to offer.

"We've managed to convince most of the world to take a respite from production on the Sabbath, but we've yet to really convince people to take a break from consumption as well," said Benstein, who has written extensively on the connection between Judaism and sustainability.

A draft document prepared for Sunday's meeting quoted the exposition on the issue by Rabbi Steven Greenberg, who teaches at the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership (CLAL) in New York.

"We Jews have done a pretty good job in delivering nine and a half out of the Ten Commandments to the world," Greenberg was quoted as saying.

"The half that we have delivered is the side of Shabbat that is about employment; the universal right to have one day off work each week. The half that we haven't is the part of Shabbat that is about refraining from shopping, driving, flying - the part that deals with our relationship to the created world. We need to deliver that half of the Shabbat commandment to the world now."

Benstein offered the notion that a sliding scale, such as Maimonides' eight levels of charity, could be especially appropriate to encourage individual action on climate change.

"There would be an entry level, but there would always be more to strive for," he offered.

"Judaism is a legalistic religion. That's what you need when dealing with climate change. We know a lot about following the commandments. In this case, the commandments would be changing your light bulbs [to compact fluorescents], separating your garbage, etc," said Benstein, the author of The Way into Judaism and the Environment.

"How do you take an as yet unwritten compelling document and get it to the leaders of the Jewish people?" Benstein asked. "While one could probably name 40 to 50 really influential Jews, most of them are not active in environmental issues. We need to figure out how to get this document to them to pass it on."

Arava Power Company President Yosef Abramowitz offered a slight modification to the draft document's energy-independence goals.

"It's all well and good to say that Israel should be energy independent by 2050. However, we need interim goals," Abramowitz said.

"The next Birkat Hahama is in 28 years, which also happens to be the Jubilee year. So let's aim for 50 percent energy independence based on renewables by then."

"This is really a chance for us to determine whether Judaism still has anything relevant to offer the world or whether our role in history is done," Abramowitz declared.

Savage also picked up on the Birkat Hahama theme.

"The next one is April 8, 2037. The question is: What will the world look like then? And what role will we have played in making it a better place?" he asked.

Other featured speakers included Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Naomi Tsur, BrightSource Energy-Luz2 Energy founder Arnold Goldman, the head of Tel Aviv University's Porter School for Environmental Studies, Prof. Pinhas Alpert; the Heschel Center for Environmental Leadership and Learning's director Dr. Eilon Schwartz and Beit Av founder Rabbi Dov Berkovitz.

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11. Jewish Groups Proposing Seven Year Plan on Climate Change and Sustainability

Climate of Change

A Seven Year Plan for the Jewish People on Climate Change and Sustainability

Posted: 08 Apr 2009 01:50 AM PDT

This past Sunday, 53 of Israel's top scientists, business people, environmentalists, policy makers, Rabbis and educators met in Jerusalem, to develop a “Seven Year Plan for the Jewish People on Climate Change and Sustainability.” The plan, commissioned by the United Nations-affiliated Alliance of Religions and Conservation (ARC), will be presented at Windsor Castle this coming November, along with like-plans from 11 other world faiths. The meeting was held this week, to honor the Birkat Hahama, the once-in-twenty-eight years Blessing of the Sun, which we said this (Wednesday) morning.

Jewish Climate Initiative's Rabbi Julian Sinclair and Hazon's Nigel Savage put together the first draft of “the plan,” and Sunday's meeting presented the first opportunity for feedback, and the furthering of ideas. Among the participants were Green Movement-Meimad's Alon Tal, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, Naomi Tsur, founder of the Heschel Center for Environmental Learning and Leadership, Dr. Eilon Schwartz and Professor Pinhas Alpert, head of Tel Aviv University's Porter School of Environmental Studies.

It was a fantastic day- incredible to be in a room full of so many talented people, all who've accomplished so much in their respective fields. We'll be posting some great videos of the day's events in the near future. JCI and Hazon hope to “Kick-Off” the Seven Year Plan, at an international conference this coming Tu B'Shevat, with the help of Sunday's guests- We'll keep you posted on our progress!

Until then, Jewish Climate Initiative and Climate of Change wish you a Pesach full of happiness, peace, family and freedom- Chag Sameach… and a happy Birkat Hahama!

For us, Birkat Hahama has been a process of thinking about how we have used, and how we will use, the blessings of Creation. We hope your Birkat Hahama is/was meaningful, as well.

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12. Blog Considers Causes of Swine Flu Outbreak

Forwarded message:

I have just posted a new blog about the likely cause of the Swine Flu outbreak...

http://www.care2.com/causes/environment/blog/the-flu-lagoon-a-disaster-waiting-to-happen/

Please read it, and also forward to your networks and spread the word any way you can. Shout it from the rooftops if you feel so inclined :)

This is important information and everyone should know about it.

I was actually shocked to find out about the environmentally destructive extremes to which this company has gone in the name of profiting from animal slavery.

Thanks for reading.

Angel

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13. “Their Lives, Our Voices” Animal Advocacy Conference Scheduled

Forwarded message:

As a sponsor, would JVNA be able to promote Their Lives, Our Voices in your e-newsletter and website? You can find all the details here, http://www.tlov.org, or check what is written below (condensed, for space considerations).

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Join activists from all around the country this summer at the second annual Midwestern animal advocacy conference, "Their Lives, Our Voices", June 12-14, 2009. Hosted by Compassionate Action for Animals, this conference will take place in Minneapolis at the beautiful Hubert Humphrey Conference Center, located in a charming, veg-friendly, walking neighborhood.

Their Lives, Our Voices is an inclusive, high-quality, affordable, and hands-on conference focused on empowering advocates in their efforts to help farmed animals. This event is accessible to all animal advocates, showcasing diverse topics and perspectives within our movement. Networking and attendee participation are vital to TLOV's success, so please come and help make this an exceptional event, http://www.tlov.org.

Our all-star line-up of featured speakers includes Tom Regan (The Case for Animal Rights), Lorri Bauston (founder of Animal Acres), pattrice jones (Aftershock), Kenneth Williams (vegan bodybuilder and host of Undercover TV), Victoria Moran (Love-Powered Diet), Hillary Rettig (The Lifelong Activist), Norm Phelps (The Longest Struggle), Mark Hawthorne (Striking at the Roots), Erin E. Williams (Why Animals Matter), Steven Kaufman (Christian Vegetarian Association), Erica Meier (Compassion Over Killing), Jack Norris (Vegan Outreach), Jack Norris (Vegan Outreach), Nathan Runkle (Mercy for Animals), Rae Sikora (Plant Peace Daily), and Freeman Wicklund (Mercy for Animals) and many more!

The early-bird price is $15 for students and low-income individuals, $30 for everyone else. Both rates will increase by $15 on Friday, May 22. This includes four full vegan meals plus snacks! We also have low-cost housing options. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. Please visit our website for information on travel scholarships and discounts for volunteering.

Visit our website now to learn more about the event and to register at this special price! http://www.tlov.org

--
Gilbert Schwartz
Director of Volunteer Programs
Compassionate Action for Animals
www.ExploreVeg.org
gil@exploreveg.org

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14. Steps Taken to “Green” Jerusalem

Jerusalem of Gold Goes 'Green'

by Hana Levi

Thanks to Rabbi Dovid Sears, JVNA advisor and author of “The Vision of Eden: Animal welfare and Vegetarianism in Jewish Law and Mysticism” for forwarding this item from the Israeli publication Arutz Sheva:

Jerusalem of Gold will "go green" over the next 20 years in the first municipal plan for the city has since 1959. The six-point proposal, to be presented Tuesday to the Interior Ministry's Jerusalem District Planning and Construction Committee by Mayor Nir Barkat, will focus on "greening" the city, and "green construction."

The plan calls for the use of solar panels, water recycling equipment, "green" roofing and other material for construction of public, commercial, in dustrial, residential and hotel buildings. A team of city architects and engineers will work together on the project with local and international experts in the field.

Barkat stressed that although he has adjusted the plan to reflect his own "vision", it did not originate with him. A team of 25 architects and engineers worked on the plan throughout the past two administrations of then-Mayors Ehud Olmert and Uri Lupolianski.

"Since entering office, we have worked diligently to adjust the planning that was already in process in order to reflect our vision to stop the negative migration of residents from the city and to accelerate economic development in the coming years," Barkat said.

The new Master Plan also includes six major priorities that will become the new focus for municipal development:

Affordable housing for young people

The goal is to enable residents as well as college and university students to buy or rent apartments in the capital with the goal of remaining in Jerusalem. "The intention is that parts of large building projects will be designated as residential for affordable housing," Barkat said in a statement.

Developing neighborhoods in the eastern section of the city

Infrastructure will be standardized and an additional 13,550 housing units are to be built in eastern neighborhoods, plus 10,000 more allocated for construction by 2030. Most of the new apartments are to be built in Jabel Mukabar (2,500 units) and Beit Hanina-Shuafat (2,500 units), with the rest divided up between Tel Adesa (2,000 units), A-Tur (1,500 units) and the central area of the eastern end of the city (750 units).

Creating five new city parks, open areas and urban nature areas

The plan calls for five metropolitan parks surrounding the city in a green strip that allows for a variety of leisure and recreational activities, including: extreme sports, picnic areas, a lake, hiking trails, and others. In addition, 43 kilometers of bicycle trails are planned for the open areas around the city. The plan defines a hierarchy of open areas at different levels in the city. The plan defines metropolitan parks (16,000 dunams), municipal parks (7,000 dunams), quarter parks (1,000 dunams) , neighborhood parks (1,600 dunams) and neighborhood gardens (2,300 dunams). This plan provides a wide variety of activity and usage of open areas for all the different residents of the city, in the residential, business and recreational areas.

Tourist complexes

Four areas have been targeted for development of tourism, culture and leisure-oriented activities, which will require the installation of appropriate infrastructure. The areas which city officials believe will "encourage significant growth of tourism" include the Old City and the basin surrounding it, the city center, the neighborhood of Ein Kerem, and the Armon HaNatziv ridge and Lifta neighborhood.

Conservation and preservation of historic buildings

"The plan affixes the borders of the historical city to include the neighborhoods and buildings built until 1948," according to the statement. "Through this, the city conserves its cultural and touristic assets." Simultaneously, a new survey will be carried out to update the conservation index, which will later be published.

Hi-tech complexes, employment and industry

The city hopes to attract companies and institutions that will provide 150,000 new jobs in the fields of hi-tech, higher education, bio-tech and other areas. Four new industrial zones will be built towards this goal. Furthermore, the use of the Givat Shaul industrial area will be expanded to include technical colleges and job training centers for the hareidi religious community.

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15. Complimentary DVD on Infectious Disease Threats Offered by Expert Michael Gregor, MD

Forwarded message from Michael Gregor, MD:

Dear Friends,

Thanks to the kind generosity of the Sheepdrove Trust, they are offering to send copies of my DVD on emerging infectious diseases to folks that send them a SASE: http://sheepdrove.wordpress.com/2009/04/30/flu-pandemic-prevention-free-dvd/

--
Michael Greger, M.D.
Director, Public Health and Animal Agriculture
The Humane Society of the United States
2100 L St., N.W.
Washington, DC 20037
direct line: (202) 676-2361
fax: (202) 676-2372
http://www.birdflubook.org

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16. Jewish International Educational Event Kallah09 Scheduled/“A Sacred Duty” to be Shown

13th International ALEPH Kallah!
June 29 -- July 5, 2009
Ohio Wesleyan University _ (near) Columbus, OH

[If you would like to represent JVNA at this conference and/or other upcoming relevant events, please let me know. Thanks.]

This summer, don't miss the opportunity to experience an amazing week of engaging classes, powerful prayer, deep text study, and the opportunity to meet and connect with Jews coming together from all over the world.....

At Kallah, you'll find...

* Over 45 fabulous courses offered by internationally known teachers
* World Class Children's Programming
(Teen Wilderness Program; Kids Kallah, Choir & Toddler Program)
* Healing Center (Massage, Acupuncture, Spiritual Direction, & more!)
* Music! Music! & More Music! (Sing in choirs, or just enjoy entertainment from the best Jewish musicians around!
* Kesher Leadership Program for Young Adults
* Bookstore & Judaica Gallery

Forward this message to a friend
Register Before
May 15
(to avoid late fee)

Register Online!

Don't let finances stop you!

Take advantage of our discounts, as well as our extensive Work Study Program where you may "earn & learn" to supplement your Kallah fees.

In addition, young adults can take advantage of our Kesher Program which provides scholarship opportunities.

For More Information, or to download the brochure, check out our website:

www.aleph.org/kallah.htm

To request a paper brochure, contact: kallahadmin@rcn.com

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17. EU Legalizes Kosher Slaughter, Pro-Animal Groups Want Ban

Iyar 13, 5769, 07 May 09 01:55
by by Tzvi Ben Gedalyahu
(IsraelNN.com)

[While JVNA supports the end of all slaughter of animals for food, we oppose efforts to single out Jewish ritual slaughter (shechita) for special criticism.]

The European Union Parliament on Wednesday voted to legalize kosher slaughtering, which has been outlawed by six countries -- but a critical vote next month will determine if EU countries can effectively get around the approval by demanding pre-stunning, which violates Jewish dietary laws.

The European Jewish Congress and conference of European Jewish Rabbis lobbied heavily for the bill and defeated efforts by animal rights groups to ban kosher slaughtering, which demands swift death to the animal by use of a sharp knife at the throat.

Animal rights groups have claimed the method is cruel and have succeeded in banning kosher slaughtering in Latvia, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Estonia and Lithuania. Switzerland allows the method for poultry but not for other animals.

Rabbi Michael Melchior, former chief rabbi of Norway and currently an Israeli Knesset Member, has said that kosher slaughter is actually more humane than the practices in slaughterhouses. "The Torah forbids cruelty to animals, and the shechitah [slaughter] process ensures that the animal loses consciousness immediately," he explained. "We have been dealing with this issue for many years, and there are many scientific studies that back us up."

The EU vote “represents the first time that 'shechita' has been recognized as a legitimate form of animal slaughter by any European institution," said Henry Grunwald, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews and Chairman of Shechita EU, which also fought for the new legislation.

The crucial vote on pre-stunning worries European Jews. "The [proposed] regulation must not be drafted to allow governments in Europe to threaten our culture and our freedom to observe our religion," said Philip Carmel of the Conference of European Rabbis. Serge Cwajgenbaum, Secretary General of the European Jewish Congress, added that “the Jewish community takes seriously the issues of human rights and the humane treatment of animals.”

The anti-kosher slaughtering bills have been viewed as anti-Semitic by many Jews in Europe, where Hitler banned the method as one of his first steps against Jews.

When Holland called kosher slaughtering "cruel" in 2003 but allowed Jews to continue using the method, Rabbi Melchior responded, "They simply don't want foreigners, and they don't want Jews. I won't say this is the only motivation, but it's certainly no coincidence that one of the first things Nazi Germany forbade was kosher slaughter.”

Attempts by Swiss Jews to lift its 100-year-old ban on kosher slaughtering caused an anti-Semitic backlash. In Sweden, there have been attempts to forbid circumcision, a Jewish law that has bound Jews for 3,500 years.

Abraham Foxman, the national director of the U.S.-based Anti-Defamation League, has said that anti-Semitic politicians “aid and abet” animal right activists. “What other issues of animal rights have they engaged in to prohibit cruelty? When they begin and end with kosher slaughter, that's when it becomes suspect,” he stated.

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18. Canfei Nesharim Offers Synagogues Free Environmental Resources and Training

Forward message from Canfei Nesharim (Wings of Eagles, an Orthodo x Jewish environmental group):

[Kol hakavod (kudos) to Canfei Nesharim's director Evonne Marzouk for being chosen by the NY Jewish Week as one of 36 Jewish leaders under 36 years of age who are making a very positive impact. More on this below.]

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Join Our New Synagogues' Pilot!
Get Free Resources and Training from Canfei Nesharim

Canfei Nesharim is committed to providing inspiring educational resources to engage synagogues and their members in learning and acting together to protect our environment. Since January 2008, Canfei Nesharim has been working directly with seven Orthodox communities who have implemented a series of Torah-based environmental programs in their communities over the last year.

In partnership with these lay leaders, Canfei Nesharim has designed and launched a full year-long series of programs on the environment related to themes in the Jewish year, including the Three Weeks (precaution), Sukkot/Shemini Atzeret (water), Chanukah (energy), Tu b'Shevat (appreciation for nature), Purim/Pesach (reducing waste), and the Omer (relationship to the land). The launch of this program was featured on the front page of the Washington Jewish Week in July 2008; for the full text, click here. [http://www.canfeinesharim.org/]

We are now recruiting communities to participate in the Second Phase of the pilot, which will take place from June 2009-May 2010. The pilot offers the synagogue the opportunity to explore the relevance of the Torah to a modern issue of great importance, with high-quality, free resources from Canfei Nesharim. Synagogues may apply by sending a few paragraphs describing their community and their readiness to participate in the pilot. [More information at http://www.canfeinesharim.org/]

For more information about the pilot, and application instructions, including details to help you consider whether your synagogue is ready to participate, please visit our Synagogues Pilot Website. Applications are due June 1, 2009.
# # #

P.S. Like what you see? You can always make a difference by supporting our work. Thanks for your generosity!

Exciting News!
Canfei Nesharim Executive Director Chosen in New York Jewish Week List of 36 Under 36!

The May 5 issue of the New York Jewish Week featured a list of 36 "forward-thinking young people who are helping to remake the Jewish community." We're proud that Evonne Marzouk, our Executive Director, made the list! Mazel tov to Evonne and to all those who have supported our mission and made this recognition possible! To read the full article about Evonne, visit:

http://www.thejewishweek.com/viewArticle/c371_a15643/News/36_Under_36_TJW.html

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19. Forward Forum of Rabbis Considers Lessons of the Postville Slaughterhouse Issue

Post-Postville: A Year After the Raid, Lessons Learned

http://www.forward.com/articles/105674/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=Email+marketing+software&utm_content=70952084&utm_ca mpaign=May+15%2c+2009+_+tdedi&utm_term=READ+MORE

Post-Postville: A Forum

By Shmuel Herzfeld, Sybil Sanchez, Avi Shafran, Menachem Genack, Joan Nathan, Jill Jacobs, Jane Ramsey, Stephen G. Bloom

To mark the first anniversary of the massive federal immigration raid on the Agriprocessors kosher meat plant in Postville, Iowa, we [the Forward] asked a diverse group of contributors to reflect on what this episode has taught us about immigration, labor, kosher food and Jewish communal values.

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20. My Compilation of Many Rabbinic Quotes on Vegetarianism

http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Judaism/rabbinicveg.html

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21. Eco-Kosher Jews have Taste For Vegetarian Food

Los Angeles times article:

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-kosher-jewish8-2009may08,0,6255961.story

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22. Mexicans Blame Industrial Pig Farms For Many Problems

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The material on this site is provided for educational and informational purposes. It may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. It is being made available in an effort to advance the understanding of vegetarian, environmental, nutritional, health, economic, social justice and human rights issues etc. It is believed that this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have an interest in using the included information for educational or research purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond 'fair use', you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. The information on this site does not constitute legal, technical or medical advice.

5/3/2009 JVNA Online Newsletter

2009-05-05T00:07:00.009-04:00

Shalom everyone,

This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:

1. Much new material at the JVNA Web Site

2. “Thou Shalt Not Eat Meat”/Challenging Jews on Their Diets

3. JVNA Press Release on the Swine Flu Controversy

4. Veggie Pride Parade 2009 Scheduled

5. My letter re Swine Flu

6. Update on Israel's Water Crisis

7. Plans Made for Fasting to Reduce Animal Abuses

8. Video Relates Factory Farming to the Swine Flu Pandemic

9. Ask the Rabbi: Promoting Vegetarianism and Veganism/My Responses

10. Connections Between the Swine Flu Pandemic and Factory Farming

11. Interreligious Environmental Conference Scheduled

12. The Swine Flu Crisis Lays Bare the Meat Industry's
Monstrous Power

13. Powerful Quote on the Negative Environmental Effects of Animal-Based Diets

14. Our Message Being Spread Widely

15. Great Article Discusses Impact of Jews on the Animal Rights Movement

16. Excerpts From Canfei Nesharim Newsletter

17. Seeking Jewish Teens to Help Promote Vegetarianism

18. Seeking Congressional Action to Help Eliminate Factory Farming

19. NY City Elected Officials to Discuss Animal Welfare

20. Update on Podcast Project

21. Jewish Vegetarian Woman Offers $2,000 for Help Finding Her Soul Mate

Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.

[Materials in brackets like this [ ] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]

Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of the kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observances, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in. Also, JVNA does not necessarily agree with all positions of groups whose views are included or whose events are announced in this newsletter.

As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.

Thanks,

Richard

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1. Much new material at the JVNA Web Site

Much new material has been posted at the JVNA web site. Many thanks to our anonymous volunteer for her splendid work.

a. Many JVNA press releases have been posted at:

http://www.jewishveg.com/media.html

These involve global warming, Postville, health issues and much more. Please take a look and suggest ways to use these and future press releases.

b. CHAPTERS FROM JUDAISM AND GLOBAL SURVIVAL, by Richard Schwartz (Lantern Books, 2002) have been posted in a section near the end at JewishVeg.com/schwartz.

Here are the chapter topics:

1. Involvement and Protest
2. Human Rights and Obligations
3. Social Justice
4. Ecology
5. Environmental Issues in Israel
6. Hunger
7. Peace
8. International Issues and Globalization
9. Energy
10. Global Climate Change
11. Population Growth
12. Vegetarianism -- A Global Imperative?
13. Conclusion

Please consider using these chapters for resources and quotes for your letters, articles and talking points.

c. MY VIDEO AND AUDIO INTERVIEWS AND TALKS are also near the bottom at JewishVeg.com/schwartz.
"Should Jews Be Vegetarians?," Flatbush JC on November 16, 2008 (.mp4 file)
podcasts [Many recordings of interviews of and talks by Richard Schwartz]

d. Three of my new new articles are now at JewishVeg.com/schwartz:

One on Passover:

One on Birkat Hachamah

One on Activism to Reduce Global Threats

There are over 140 articles and about 20 podcasts at that web site. Please let others know about this resource. There is much additional information at the JVNA web site (JewishVeg.com).

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2. “Thou Shalt Not Eat Meat”/Challenging Jews on Their Diets

Because our efforts to get vegetarianism onto the Jewish agenda have had limited success, I have written the article below and I hope to send it to the Jewish media and to rabbis and other Jewish leaders. Suggestions very welcome. Many thanks.

Thou Shalt Not Eat Meat
Richard H. Schwartz

Thou shalt not eat meat?? Have I gone completely crazy? Am I not aware that the Torah gives people permission to eat meat and goes into some detail in discussing which animals are permitted to be eaten and which are not? And that the Talmud has much material on the laws of kashrut related to the preparation and consumption of meat? And that various types of flesh products have been strongly associated with Sabbath and festival celebrations?

Yes, but I still think that it is still necessary, actually essential, to make the case why under current conditions, this issue should be seriously considered.

One of the key reasons is that the world is rapidly approaching an unprecedented catastrophe from global warming and other environmental threats, and animal-based agriculture is a major contributor to these threats. Pikuach nefesh (the mandate to do whatever is necessary to save a human life) is arguably Judaism's most important mitzvah, because it overrides all other mitzvoth, except these forbidding murder, idol worship and sexual immorality, which are not applicable to the issues under consideration. And we are not dealing now with the possibility of saving just one life, but all of humanity.

Please consider:

* There are almost daily reports of the effects of global climate change, including severe heat waves, storms, droughts, floods and wildfires, and the melting of glaciers and polar icecaps.

* While these effects are due to an increase of about 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit in the past 100 years, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a group composed of the world's leading climate scientists, projects an increase of from 3 to 11 degrees Fahrenheit in the next 100 years, which would result in an unparalleled disaster for humanity..

* Some climate scientists, including James Hansen of NASA, are warning that global climate change may spin out of control within a few years with ext reme consequences unless major changes are soon made.

* Israel is especially threatened by global warming. It is now experiencing the worst drought in its history, and the reduced rainfall the last few years has so diminished the level of the Sea of Galilee that the pumping of water from it had to be stopped. In 2007 a report by the Israel Union for Environmental Defense projected that if current trends continue, Israel will experience major heat waves, storms and floods, a decrease in average rainfall of 20 to 30 percent and an inundation of the coastal plain where most Israelis live by a rising Mediterranean Sea.

* According to a 2006 UN Food and Agriculture Organization report, animal-based agriculture emits more greenhouse gases (18% in CO2 equivalents) than all the cars, ships, planes and other means of transportation combined (13.5%), and this difference will sharply increase because the number of farmed animals is projected to double in 50 years. Hence, without a major societal shift to plant-based diets, it will be impossible to obtain the greenhouse gas emissions that climate experts think are essential to avoid the worst effects of global warming.

* Animal-centered agriculture also causes other environmental problems, including soil erosion and depletion, the rapid extinction of species, air and water pollution, and the destruction of tropical rain forests, coral reefs and other valuable habitats. An animal-based diet requires up to 14 times as much water as a vegan diet.

The many negative effects of animal-based diets was well summed up by the editors of World watch magazine in thir July/August 2004 issue: "The human appetite for animal flesh is a driving force behind virtually every major category of environmental damage now threatening the human future. Deforestation, erosion, fresh water scarcity, air and water pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, social injustice, the destabilization of communities, and the spread of disease."

A second major reason that Jews should avoid eating meat is that high meat consumption and the ways in which meat is produced today conflict with at least six basic Jewish teachings:

1) While Judaism mandates that people should be very careful about preserving their health and their lives, numerous scientific studies have linked animal-based diets directly to heart disease, stroke, many forms of cancer, and other chronic degenerative diseases.

2) While Judaism forbids tsa'ar ba'alei chayim, inflicting unnecessary pain on animals, most farm animals -- including those raised for kosher consumers -- are raised on "factory farms" where they live in cramped, confined spaces, and are often drugged, mutilated, and denied fresh air, sunlight, exercise, and any enjoyment of life, before they are slaughtered and eaten.

3) While Judaism teaches that "the earth is the Lord's" (Psalm 24:1) and that we are to be God's partners and co-workers in preserving the world, modern intensive livestock agriculture contributes substantially to soil erosion and depletion, air and water pollution, overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, the destruction of tropical rain forests and other habitats, global warming, and other environmental damage.

4) While Judaism mandates bal tashchit, that we are not to waste or unnecessarily destroy anything of value, and that we are not to use more than is needed to accomplish a purpose, animal agriculture requires the wasteful use of grain, land, water, energy, and other resources.

5) While Judaism stresses that we are to assist the poor and share our bread with hungry people, over 70% of the grain grown in the United States is fed to animals destined for slaughter, while an estimated 20 million people worldwide die because of hunger and its effects each year.

6) While Judaism stresses that we must seek and pursue peace and that violence results from unjust conditions, animal-centered diets, by wasting valuable resources, help to perpetuate the widespread hunger and poverty that eventually lead to instability and war.

We could say "dayenu" after each of the arguments above, because each constitutes by itself a serious conflict between Jewish values and current practice that should impel Jews to seriously consider a plant-based diet. Combined, they make an urgently compelling case for the Jewish community to address these issues.

This view is reinforced by some statements by Rabbi David Rosen, former Chief Rabbi of Ireland. He believes that even if eating meat is considered a mitzvah, which he doesn't. it would be a mitzvah haba'ah b'aveirah (a mitzvah based on transgressions). He asserts that “the current treatment of animals in the livestock trade definitely renders the consumption of meat as halachically unacceptable as the product of illegitimate means,” and that “as it is halachically prohibited to harm oneself and as healthy, nutritious vegetarian alternatives are readily available, meat consumption has become halachically unjustifiable.”

Finally, the view that Jews should not eat meat is reinforced by an extension of an article, “Thou Shalt Not Smoke,” by Rabbi Abraham J. Twerski, a prolific Orthodox scholar and author. His strong arguments based on health reasons are also applicable to eating meat and, as indicated above, there are many additional reasons for not eating meat.

Rabbi Twerski concludes, “Cigarette smoking causes disease and death. “Those who have the capacity to eliminate a wrong and do not do so bear the responsibility for its consequences.” [his emphasis.] These are harsh words, but they are not mine. They are the words of the Talmud, Tractate Shabbos 54b. Since the eating of meat not only causes disease and death, but also greatly harms billions of animals, contributes significantly to global warming and many other environmental threats, uses water, energy, land and other resources very inefficiently and contributes to widespread hunger, his conclusion is even more applicable to the consumption of meat.

For many years I have argued that Jews have a choice in their diets, but that choice should consider the negative effects of animal-based diets on Jewish teachings, such as those mentioned above. Unfortunately, this has had little effect as the world moves increasingly toward a catastrophe beyond anything since the great flood in the time of Noah. Hence, while it may initially seem very foreign to Judaism, I think it is essential to argue that “Thou shalt not eat meat.”

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3. JVNA Press Release on the Swine Flu Controversy

PRESS RELEASE

JEWISH GROUP URGES SWINE FLU OUTBREAK BE SEEN AS WAKE-UP CALL TO CONSIDER HEALTH AND MORAL ISSUES RELATED TO DIETS

For Immediate Release:

April 28, 2009
Contact:

Richard H. Schwartz, President of the Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA)
Phone: (718) 761-5876 Cell: 917-576-0344

Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) today issued the following statement:

The current widespread breakout of swine flu, related to the close confinement of thousands of animals in unsanitary conditions, where their manure piles up and viruses can proliferate and easily spread and mutate
[http://www.humanesociety.org/farm/news/ournews/swine_flu.html and

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/apr/27/swine-flu-mexico-health and

http://www.grist.org/article/2009-04-25-swine-flu-smithfield/]

should be the latest wake-up call to the need to consider the many ways that animal-based diets are inconsistent with basic Jewish teachings. One is tempted to consider the song dayenu (“It would be enough”) sung at Passover seders, because of the many reasons that by themselves should be enough for Jews (and others) to shift to plant-based diets. Please consider:

1) While Judaism mandates that people should be very careful about preserving their health and their lives, numerous scientific studies have linked animal-based diets directly to heart disease, stroke, many forms of cancer, and other chronic degenerative diseases. Dayenu!

2) While Judaism forbids tsa'ar ba'alei chayim, inflicting unnecessary pain on animals, most farm animals -- including those raised for kosher consumers -- are raised on "factory farms" where they live in cramped, confined spaces, and are often drugged, mutilated, and denied fresh air, sunlight, exercise, and any enjoyment of life, before they are slaughtered and eaten. Dayenu!

3) While Judaism teaches that "the earth is the Lord's" (Psalm 24:1) and that we are to be God's partners and co-workers in preserving the world, modern intensive livestock agriculture contributes substantially to soil erosion and depletion, air and water pollution, overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, the destruction of tropical rain forests and other habitats, global warming, and other environmental damage. Dayenu!

4) While Judaism mandates bal tashchit, that we are not to waste or unnecessarily destroy anything of value, and that we are not to use more than is needed to accomplish a purpose, animal agriculture requires the wasteful use of grain, land, water, energy, and other resources. Dayenu!

5) While Judaism stresses that we are to assist the poor and share our bread with hungry people, over 70% of the grain grown in the United States is fed to animals destined for slaughter, while an estimated 20 million people worldwide die because of hunger and its effects each year.

6) While Judaism stresses that we must seek and pursue peace and that violence results from unjust conditions, animal-centered diets, by wasting valuable resources, help to perpetuate the widespread hunger and poverty that eventually lead to instability and war. Dayenu!

We have indicated "dayenu" after each of the arguments above, because each constitutes by itself a serious conflict between Jewish values and current practice that should impel Jews to seriously consider a plant-based diet. Combined, they make an urgently compelling case for the Jewish community to address these issues.

A shift toward vegetarianism is especially important today, with almost daily reports of severe droughts, floods, storms and wildfires and the rapid melting of glaciers and polar icecaps and with some climate scientists, including James Hansen of NASA, warning that global climate change may spin out of control within a few years with extreme consequences unless major changes are soon made.. According to a 2006 UN Food and Agriculture Organization report, animal-based agriculture emits more greenhouse gases (18% in CO2 equivalents) than all the cars, ships, planes and other means of transportation combined (13.5%), and this difference will sharply increase because the number of farmed animals is projected to double in 50 years. Hence, without a major societal shift to plant-based diets, it will be impossible to obtain the greenhouse gas emissions that climate experts think are essential to avoid the worst effects of global warming.

Israel is especially threatened by global warming. It is now experiencing the worst drought in its history, and the reduced rainfall the last few years has so diminished the level of the Sea of Galilee that the pumping of water from it had to be stopped. In 2007 a report by the Israel Union for Environmental Defense projected that if current trends continue, Israel will experience major heat waves, storms and floods, a decrease in average rainfall of 20 to 30 percent and an inundation of the coastal plain wh ere most Israelis live by a rising Mediterranean Sea.

In view of these great threats to Israel, all of humanity and all of creation, JVNA believes that it is essential that the Jewish community fulfill our mandate to be a 'light unto the nations' and lead efforts to address these critical issues.

JVNA is urging that tikkun olam-the healing and repair of the world -- become a central issue in synagogues, Jewish schools and other Jewish institutions. “Judaism has splendid teachings on environmental conservation and sustainability, and it is essential that they be applied to respond to the many current environmental threats,” stated Richard Schwartz, president of JVNA.

JVNA urges rabbis and other Jewish leaders to make Jews aware of these issues and to put the many moral issues related to our diets on the Jewish agenda..

Further information about these issues can be found at JewishVeg.com. JVNA will provide complimentary copies of its new documentary A SACRED DUTY: APPLYING JEWISH VALUES TO HELP HEAL THE WORLD and related materials to rabbis and other Jewish leaders who will consider using them to involve their congregations on the issues.

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4. Veggie Pride Parade 2009 Scheduled

I am scheduled to speak and I plan to march and hand out DVDs at this important event in lower Manhattan, NY City, on Sunday, May 17. Also, JVNA will be sharing a table at the event. I would love to see and chat with people on this list at this event. If you would like to help at the JVNA table or in any other way, please let me know. People can find me handing out DVDs at the gathering before the parade or at the JVNA table after the march. Thanks.

Pamela Rice has done a splendid job of organizing this event. A message from her is below. Please check the web sites indicated for further information about the parade and associated events. Thanks.

Dear Richard:

Following are the two Web pages that give people all the pertinent information:

Press release:
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/dept/pr.htm

Program guide
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/dept/program.2009.htm
Click on box with smilie face to download PDF of the program guide.

also....
HOME PAGE:
http://www.veggieprideparade.org/

Best regards,
Pamela Rice

PS: Thank you so much for your support. I truly appreciate it!

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5. My letter re Swine Flu

May 1, 2009

Editor, Staten Island Advance
Editor@siadvance.com

Dear Editor:

Whole visits to modern meat departments and butcher shops may disguise it, modern 'livestock' agriculture involves corrals filled with sick, mistreated animals pumped full of antibiotics, incredible concentrations of manure, and swarms of buzzing flies, creating a perfect storm for disease, which can result in pandemics like the current one involving swine flu. So, your May 3 front page article, “Health official: pandemic is imminent,” should be an additional wake up call to the need to abolish factory farming of animals and for a shift to nutritious plant-based diets.

Such changes would have many additional benefits, since the production and consumption of animal products contributes significantly to: an epidemic of heart disease, various types of cancer and other diseases that are resulting in soaring medical expenditures and thus major budget deficits; global warming, destruction of tropical rain forests and other valuable habitats, rapid species extinction and many more environmental problems; widespread hunger, as 70 percent of the grain produced in the US and 40 percent produced worldwide are fed to farmed animals.

Hence, a switch toward plant-based diets is not only an important individual choice, but a societal imperative, essential to move our imperiled planet to a sustainable path.

Very truly yours,

Richard H. Schwartz

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6. Update on Israel's Water Crisis

Forwarded message from the Jewish National Fund (JNF):

Israel's usable water supply is at an all-time low.

http://support.jnf.org/site/PageServer?pagename=31daysinmay

Water levels are down owing to four straight years of drought. Precipitation is inadequate, and private consumption is increasing. Quotas for farmers and water rationing for Israelis has already begun in the north and the Sea of Galilee may soon stop pumping [It recently did.].

According to the UN water index, the minimum quantity of water each person needs is 79,200 gallons per year. Israel's water sources can supply only 31,680 gallons per person per year, a scant 40% of the UN minimum. Israel can't survive without water, the essence of life.

This campaign starts today. Your participation in 31 Days in May

http://support.jnf.org/site/PageServer?pagename=31daysinmay

will help JNF alleviate Israel's water crisis by raising funds to build 40 new reservoirs, research and implement new agricultural techniqu es, and develop innovative wetlands technology.

Working the same way as walk-a-thons, JNF's online tool allows you to create your own fundraising page to tap your friends and family for this campaign. Learn more.

Together, over the next 31 days, we can make a positive impact on the lives of Israel's people.

[One major change would be a shift to plant-based diets, since an animal-based diet use up to 14 times as much water as a vegan diet.]

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7. Plans Made for Fasting to Reduce Animal Abuses

Forwarded message:

I would like to request that you please put this information on your next newsletter. I would greatly appreciate it.

All the info is on this site http://www.livevegan.net

We have a Facebook group and we are gathering volunteers.

Fasting to Abolish Animal Slavery [FAAS] is an event to highlight and call for the abolition of all forms of nonhuman slavery. This fasting event will be held on Earth Day 2010 and hopefully thereafter. There is no particular group represented, just a group of individuals (vegetarian and vegans). There will also be information at stalls besides the fasters. It will be in a public setting with hopefully media coverage.

If you need more information, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Thanks very much

Kind regards
Trisha

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8. Video Relates Factory Farming to the Swine Flu Pandemic

Forwarded message from Jeff and Sabrina Nelson of EarthSave:

Globalization means big US corporate bacon farms moved to Mexico where you can get cheap, desperate labor - and where the poor, powerless residents can't sue you for the horrific stench and disease produced by the pig manure swamps.

The miserable, stressful lifestyles of the factory farmed pigs makes them sick.

The result?

World pandemic.

Practices of the meat industry constitute a threat to humanity.

So why aren't people in the media talking about the connection between factory farming and human health?

Actually, one vegan newscaster who has her own show on CNN is doing just that.

Watch the videos:

http://www.vegsource.com/articles2/media_swine_flu1.htm

Peas & love,
Jeff & Sabrina

P.S. Please share VegSource e-mails and videos with friends and colleagues.

That's how we grow. Thanks.

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9. Ask the Rabbi: Promoting Vegetarianism and Veganism/My Responses

Below is a message from the Israeli school Eretz Hemdah, which trains students to be judges in Jewish law (halacha). It summarizes my question to them and then provides their response. After their complete response below, I repeat that response, with my comments interspersed..

Question: The attached literature explains why we feel Jewish leaders, including rabbis, should take a leading role in promoting vegetarianism and veganism (not using animal products, including milk and eggs). We await your comments and feedback, as the rabbinic community is relatively silent on the matter.

[We [Eretz Hemdad] very briefly summarize the issues the question included. Readers are invited to learn more at www.JewishVeg.com (a site that was referenced) and react.] The billions of farmed animals produce more greenhouse gases than human transportation, contributing to the looming world ecological disaster, including flooding, heat waves, and droughts in places such as Israel. These animals require enormous amounts of water and animal feed, much of which could feed starving people. Wasting resources in this way violates bal tashchit (the prohibition to waste). Jews are not filling their leadership role of tikkun olam (improving the world). Also, most farming of animals is done in a cruel manner (tza'ar ba'alei chayim).

Answer: The scientific consensus seems to agree with your basic premises.

However, we lack the expertise to confirm or reject the definitive picture you paint of the danger's extent and the most effective ways to act.

For this reason, many rabbis are uncomfortable speaking out.

Because we agree that waiting until all the facts are crystal clear may do om us, we are responding to you in an abridged and theoretical manner to do our part to advance dialogue within the Jewish community.

Few, if any, of us can make a significant impact on world ecology. Thus, when each of us decides about diet, the matter can be equated to the following situation. A person has a serious medical condition. He can decrease the chances of tragedy by a tiny amount if he undergoes a difficult treatment. While it might be wise for him to take the steps, he is not halachically required to do so. Otherwise, anyone with a serious illness would have to spend all of his money to hire the biggest (most expensive) expert in the field to heal him (as our mentor, Rav Z.N. Goldberg, has argued is not so). On the Jewish, national level, if the world would follow our lead, we might have a national obligation to make a significant difference, but we do not think that this is presently the case.

However, we still feel it is noble to try to advance ecological concerns along the lines of the Rabbis' words, “It is not for you to finish the job, but neither are you free to be idle from it.”

There are various steps we can take to improve the situation, of which vegetarianism/ veganism is but one. These include: supporting (when it does not conflict with bigger concerns) “green-minded” candidates for office; spending money on fuel efficiency (efficient cars, home insulation, etc.); investing in companies that research and develop environmentally friendly technology; reducing consumption of animal products and fuels (adjust thermostat, walk and take public transportation more); speak to friends and/or write about such steps.

We reject the claim that raising livestock is bal tachshit. Bal tachshit refers to acts that are directly destructive, such as ripping and chopping down without positive gain (see Rambam, Melachim 6:10). Allocating resources for a desired result in a less than ideal manner or where there are side effects does not violate the prohibition.

Regarding cruelty to animals, although it is unclear what the exact parameters of proper conditions are, it is clear that there are many instances of abuse. We encourage efforts to “clean up the industry.” While veganism is a noble means to limit abuses, by causing there to be fewer animals born to suffer, it does not eradicate the problem and is not required. We support boycotting companies who are known to cause definite tza'ar ba'alei chayim.

In summary, we encourage people to take steps to reduce dependence on animal farming and improving world ecology.

However, this does not mean one needs to be a vegan or a vegetarian.

Eretz Hemdah - Institute for Advanced Jewish Studies, Jerusalem © All Rights Reserved

-------------------------------------------------------
Eetz Hemdah's answer is repeated blow, with my comments interspersed:

Answer: The scientific consensus seems to agree with your basic premises.

**** This is an important concession by a well-respected Israeli educational establishment, and much appreciated.

However, we lack the expertise to confirm or reject the definitive picture you paint of the danger's extent and the most effective ways to act.

**** This is why JVNA has long advocated that a commission of rabbis, other Jewish scholars, environmentalists, nutritionists and other experts be set up to objectively study the issues and issue a report.

For this reason, many rabbis are uncomfortable speaking out.

**** Perhaps they could set up forums to explore the issues, without necessarily forming conclusions or issuing statements. We are not dealing with just an ordinary issue here, but factors that concern the future of humanity.

Because we agree that waiting until all the facts are crystal clear may doom us, we are responding to you in an abridged and theoretical manner to do our part to advance dialogue within the Jewish community.

***** This is very much appreciated. I wish other groups were as open to at least considering the issues.

Few, if any, of us can make a significant impact on world ecology. Thus, when each of us decides about diet, the matter can be equated to the following situation. A person has a serious medical condition. He can decrease the chances of tragedy by a tiny amount if he undergoes a difficult treatment. While it might be wise for him to take the steps, he is not halachically required to do so. Otherwise, anyone with a serious illness would have to spend all of his money to hire the biggest (most expensive) expert in the field to heal him (as our mentor, Rav Z.N. Goldberg, has argued is not so). On the Jewish, national level, if the world would follow our lead, we might have a national obligation to make a significant difference, but we do not think that this is presently the case.

**** I think that if there was a major move by Jews toward vegetarianism, with the reasons made clear, this could receive much publicity and perhaps start a movement by others to healthier and more environmentally sustainable diets.

**** Aren't we supposed to try to be a light unto the nations, even if the likelihood of making an impact is small?

**** Rabbi Yosef Carmel has stated that a shift to vegetarianism is important because of pikuach nefesh (saving of human lives). Since pikuach nefesh overrides all other mitzvot (except for these forbidding murder, idol worship an sexual immorality, which are not issues in this situation), isn't this an important reason to act?

However, we still feel it is noble to try to advance ecological concerns along the lines of the Rabbis' words, “It is not for you to finish the job, but neither are you free to be idle from it.”

**** Agreed, of course.

There are various steps we can take to improve the situation, of which vegetarianism/ veganism is but one. These include: supporting (when it does not conflict with bigger concerns) “green-minded” candidates for office; spending money on fuel efficiency (efficient cars, home insulation, etc.); investing in companies that research and develop environmentally friendly technology; reducing consumption of animal products and fuels (adjust thermostat, walk and take public transportation more); speak to friends and/or write about such steps.

**** Absolutely! While we believe that a major shift toward vegetarian (and preferably vegan) diets is essential in trying to reduce global warming, we, of course, also support other steps, such as the ones you mention above.

We reject the claim that raising livestock is bal tachshit. Bal tachshit refers to acts that are directly destructive, such as ripping and chopping down without positive gain (see Rambam, Melachim 6:10). Allocating resou rces for a desired result in a less than ideal manner or where there are side effects does not violate the prohibition.

**** Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, the outstanding 19th century Orthodox leader, author and philosopher, states in Horeb (Section 56, No. 399): “But destruction does not only mean making something purposely unfit for its designated use; it also means trying to attain a certain aim by making use of more things and more valuable things when fewer and less valuable ones would suffice; or if this aim is not really worth the means expanded for its attainment.”

Regarding cruelty to animals, although it is unclear what the exact parameters of proper conditions are, it is clear that there are many instances of abuse. We encourage efforts to “clean up the industry.” While veganism is a noble means to limit abuses, by causing there to be fewer animals born to suffer, it does not eradicate the problem and is not required. We support boycotting companies who are known to cause definite tza'ar ba'alei chayim.

**** I think an investigation of the industry would show that animal abuses on modern factory farms are very extensive. I hope the religious community will investigate the situation. It took the mainly secular Israeli Supreme Court to outlaw the production of pate de foie gras in Israel.

In summary, we encourage people to take steps to reduce dependence on animal farming and improving world ecology.

**** Wonderful! This is MUCH appreciated. Perhaps some of your excellent faculty and students might investigate the issues further and issue a report that will be helpful to the Jewish community.

However, this does not mean one needs to be a vegan or a vegetarian.

**** But, do you believe that, since Jews have a choice, their dietary decisions should b based on an understanding of the realities of the production and consumption of animal products and how they impinge on Jewish teaching related to such issues as preservation of human health, proper treatment of animals, environmental sustainability, resource conservation, helping hungry people and pursuing peace and justice?

**** Many thanks for your very thoughtful response. Kol tuv.

Richard (Schwartz)

Eretz Hemdah - Institute for Advanced Jewish Studies, Jerusalem © All Rights Reserved

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10. Connections Between the Swine Flu Pandemic and Factory Farming

Forwarded message from Michael Gregor, MD, an expert on such issues:

A few commentators have noted the role that "factory farming" may be playing in the emergence of zoonotic swine flu viruses, including the one now spreading in North America:

Here are my comments:
http://www.humanesociety.org/farm/news/ournews/swine_flu.html

And two others that have recently blogged about the possibility:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-kirby/swine-flu-outbreak----nat_b_191408.html

http://www.grist.org/article/2009-04-25-swine-flu-smithfield/

The World Health Organization has now declared swine flu a public health emergency. To stay on top of this serious development I recommend the following sources:

http://scienceblogs.com/effectmeasure/

http://crofsblogs.typepad.com/h5n1/

http://www.newfluwiki2.com/frontPage.do

http://afludiary.blogspot.com/

http://www.cidrap.umn.edu/

--
Michael Greger, M.D.
Director, Public Health and Animal Agriculture
The Humane Society of the United States
2100 L St., N.W.
Washington, DC 20037
fax: (202) 676-2372
http://www.birdflubook.org

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11. Interreligious Environmental Conference Scheduled

Forwarded message from environmental activist Rabbi Lawrence Troster:

Repairing the Garden:
An Introduction to Religious Environmentalism

Wesley Theological Seminary
4500 Massachusetts Ave. NW
Washington, D.C. 20016

May 26, 2009 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Led by: Rabbi Lawrence Troster, Director, Fellowship Program GreenFaith and Beth Norcross, Coordinator, Green Seminary Initiative and Adjunct Faculty, Wesley Seminary

This seminar will introduce the participants to the rich scope of religious environmentalism. It will consist of: a brief survey of the history of the religious environmental movement from its beginnings over forty years ago; an overview of traditional Jewish and Christian views on the God/human/natural world relationship; the viewing of part of a new documentary, Renewal, which features a number of faith communities acting out their commitments to the earth; and specific steps your home congregation can begin taking to protect the earth.

This seminar is particularly geared to religious educators, religious leaders and religious leaders-in-training. However, all interested parties are welcome to attend.

Please bring your Bible with you.

Please direct questions to Beth Norcross at BethNorcross1@aol.com or Larwrence Troster at rabbiltroster@greenfaith.org.

Rabbi Lawrence Troster

Director, Fellowship Program,
GreenFaith: Interfaith Partners for the Environment

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12. The Swine Flu Crisis Lays Bare the Meat Industry's Monstrous Power

The Mexico swine flu outbreak should alert us to a highly globalised industry with global political clout

Mike Davis
guardian.co.uk, Monday 27 April 2009

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/apr/27/swine-flu-mexico-health

The Mexican swine flu, a genetic chimera probably conceived in the fecal mire of an industrial pigsty, suddenly threatens to give the whole world a fever. The
initial outbreaks across North America reveal an infection already traveling at higher velocity than did the last official pandemic strain, the 1968 Hong
Kong flu.

SNIP (due to space limitations)

A related article:

Swine-flu outbreak could be linked to Smithfield factory farms
http://www.grist.org/article/2009-04-25-swine-flu-smithfield/

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13. Powerful Quote on the Negative Environmental Effects of Animal-Based Diets

"The human appetite for animal flesh is a driving force behind virtually every major category of environmental damage now threatening the human future. Deforestation, erosion, fresh water scarcity, air and water pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, social injustice, the destabilization of communities, and the spread of disease." Editors, World Watch, July/August 2004

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14. Our Message Being Spread Widely

Forwarded message (with permission):

Dear Sir,

I write to first appreciate the Jewish vegetarian based in the United States for their tremendous efforts in keeping the World's ecology in balance through vegetarianism. It is indeed a fact that abstinence from breeding and eating of animals is surly the fastest way of saving our endangered earth in the present age. Once again, I say a very big thank you to you all.

I am a Christian by birth, but respect and appreciates all religions of the world, because I see them all fighting for one goal which is God realization. I am also a Lacto Vegetarian who is in support of God's law, that man should love all God's creatures.

I humbly request that DVD of the documentary A Sacred Duty and other DVDs containing the importance of vegetarianism to the world be sent to me. Finally, I would like to contribute my quota academically to the progress of this course if allowed by you. I have a Postgraduate degree in Environmental Biology.

Yours Faithfully,
Nwaka Kehi, Nigeria

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15. Great Article Discusses Impact of Jews on the Animal Rights Movement

www.tikkun.org/article.php/Nathan - 48k -

Thanks to JVNA advisor Sandra Nathan for writing such a wonderful article.

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16. Excerpts From Canfei Nesharim Newsletter

On Eagles' Wings
Counting the Omer Edition
In This Issue
Help us Take Flight
Torah Insight
Environment Matters
Rise to the Madrega
Partners in Flight
Quick Links
Engage your shul

Engage your school
For further information about the items in this newsletter and more about Canfei Nesharim, please visit:

http://www.canfeinesharim.org/

View this month's full newsletter

Help us Take Flight

Would you like to bring Torah and environment education to your shul or day school? Pilot programs are accepting synagogues and schools from across the Jewish community. Your participation will make a difference! Contact us for more information.

Learn what the Torah can teach about the environment - each week! Subscribe today to our weekly Torah commentary.

Buy eco-products in Canfei Nesharim's web store! For every product bought, a donation is made to Canfei Nesharim. And a difference is made for the environment!

Adopt a Tree! Through the Eitz Chaim "Adopt a Tree" Program, you can support a living tree while supporting Canfei Nesharim. Makes great gifts for holidays, birthdays, all year round. Visit and order on their great new website. Or order toll-free at 1-800-660-9077.

Help Canfei Nesharim take flight by sponsoring one of our exciting upcoming products. Dedicate an individual parsha in our upcoming "Jewish Environmental Parsha Initiative" in honor or in memory of a loved one, or many other wonderful opportunities for sponsorship ranging from $100 to $18,000. For more information, email us or call 212-284-6745.

See your name in print! Build your portfolio and writing skills by writing periodic articles for On Eagles' Wings. For more information, email a writing sample to us.

As our organization expands, we are looking for volunteers for synagogue and school program planning, materials development, website maintenance, and other projects. If you'd like to be involved, contact us by email.
Subscribe
Join Our Mailing List

April 29. 2009
5 Iyar 5769

Dear Friends,

At last spring has come. In the Jewish calendar we are Counting the Omer from Pesach to Shavuos, a process which includes not only spiritual but also agricultural and natural meaning. We have also just celebrated the secular holiday of Earth Day, a time to remember the resources Hashem has granted us on this beautiful planet.

This newsletter features some teachings and tips for your own learning, and to share with your community, around this special time of the year.

Wishing you a beautiful Spring,

Evonne Marzouk
Executive Director

P.S. Like what you see? Forward it to your friends and community members!

Torah Insight

Counting the Omer, Refining Ourselves
by Jonathan Neril

Our actions are deeply connected to the environment that we see around us. Our current period of "counting the Omer" offers an opportunity for strengthening and refining our character. As we will explore, this process also contains within it meaningful ways to address, from a spiritual place, some of the pressing issues of our time.

The State of Our Land

The Jewish people have a special responsibility to preserve and protect the Land of Israel. With a growing population of 6.5 million and a land mass the size of New Jersey, it is of critical importance to protect Israel's natural resources and preserve its remaining open space. Israel has led the search for environmentally sustainable and economically sound ways to promote growth while protecting Israel's unique environment. Yet Israel also faces signi-cant environmental challenges which need to be addressed. Explore some of the problems and possible solutions in a new Canfei Nesharim fact sheet.

View the Fact Sheet

Order FREE fact sheets for your community to use during the Omer!

http://www.canfeinesharim.org/

And, in the News:

The Environmental Protection Agency for the first time will require pesticide manufacturers to test 67 chemicals contained in their products to determine whether they disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates animals' and humans' growth, metabolism and reproduction, the agency said yesterday... Read article in the Washington Post
Rise to the Madrega (the level for Action)

Save Water

Every year during Pesach, we pray for the health of the grain crop during the prayer for dew: "Dew-give it to favor Your land;...with abundant grain and wine may you strengthen us...Dew and plenty, may they fill our granaries." In saying and hearing this, we focus on Hashem accepting our prayers for beneficial dew and healthy harvests. During the time of the Omer, we are especially aware of the need for water resources.

What can I do at home?

Look around your house over the next several days and see if you notice an y leaks in your sinks and showers. If you see any dripping, fix it or have it fixed.

Learn More About Saving Water in Your Home

Partners in Flight

This month, Canfei Nesharim extends three eco-friendly cheers to Ruthie Gopin, founder of Carbon-Free Kids. Ruthie, a 12-year-old Orthodox Jewish girl living in Silver Spring, Maryland, founded Carbon-Free Kids. The group raises money to enable all members of the group to offset their carbon footprint, and raises awareness about climate change and energy conservation. In a special report featured on the Carbonfund.org website, a senior climate change specialist wrote of Ruthie that he was encouraged that "with individuals like these moving into the leadership roles of tomorrow, we'll be able to work together to find solutions to the grave problems that face us." Thanks Ruthie, and you should continue to have hatzlocha with your unique project.

Many thanks to Yaakov Lehman, our newsletter editor, John Schlackman, our webmaster, and the rest of our steering committee and volunteers who contributed to the development of this newsletter. If you would like to contribute materials or ideas to the newsletter, please contact us.

Canfei Nesharim provides a Torah based approach to understand and act on the relationship between traditional Jewish sources and modern environmental issues. As the leader of a Torah-based environmental movement, Canfei Nesharim develops programs and materials and provides access to Torah-based environmental resources. We seek to educate both those in the Orthodox Jewish community and those in the wider Jewish community about these issues and promote an ongoing dialogue about our Torah mandated responsibility to protect the environment.

Visit our website to learn more!

http://www.canfeinesharim.org/

Note: All materials published herein are Copyright 2009 by their authors. Reproduction of this material is encouraged so long as the footer and header information remains intact.

ON A WING
Thank you for taking the time to focus on the importance of our natural world and our obligation to protect it. We look forward to sharing more Torah and avodas Hashem with you in the future.

Canfei Nesharim is eager to share our learning. Please forward this newsletter to anyone who would find it interesting, so that we can continue to develop our connections and engagement in the community! And please encourage the people who would be interested to subscribe directly to our mailing list using the link below.

Canfei Nesharim | 111 Eighth Ave | 11th Floor | New York | NY | 10011

http://www.canfeinesharim.org/

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17. Seeking Jewish Teens to Help Promote Vegetarianism

Thanks to Nina Natelson, founder and director of Concern for Helping Animals in Israel (CHAI), for the idea and the statement below:

Youth is the future. It is vital that young people become involved in promoting vegetarianism. If you are a Jewish teen who is vegetarian, or if you know one who has a facility for speaking or writing, please contact us.

We are seeking teen volunteers to approach publications and organizations that offer programming and activities for Jewish teens to give a presentation or write an article about how it's cool to be veg, or about the lifestyle/global warming connection or other relevant topic.

If you are an interested teen or know of one, or have suggestions about this idea, please let me know. Thanks.

Of course, we would also welcome volunteers of all ages, as there is much to be done in many areas.

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18. Seeking Congressional Action to Help Eliminate Factory Farming

Forwarded message:

Let your congressional representatives and senators know
that you want them to help eliminate factory farming (easy
form to fill out):

http://getactive.peta.org/campaign/swine_flu

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19. NY City Elected Officials to Discuss Animal Welfare

PLEASE SPREAD THE NEWS TO ALL NEW YORKERS

Forwarded message:

On May 26, some of the top elected officials in NYC government will come together to talk about animal welfare - for the first time ever - at a gr oundbreaking candidates forum organized by the New York League of Humane Voters (NYLHV). Candidates for Mayor, Public Advocate, Comptroller and Manhattan District Attorney will be joining us to answer *your* questions about animal protection issues. We've invited everyone and many have confirmed. Now we need you to attend and bring your friends! It's critically important that we have hundreds of people at this forum. Let's show the candidates & elected officials that New Yorkers care about animals... and we vote! Please tell everyone you know about this historic event!

What: NYLHV Candidate Night
When: Tuesday, May 26 - 7pm - 10pm
Where: LGBT Center, 208 W. 13th St., Rm. 301 (Manhattan)
Why: Because We Care About Animals... And We Vote!

The Candidates We've Invited:

Mayoral Candidates
Mayor Michael Bloomberg
Comptroller Bill Thompson
Council Member Tony Avella
Bill Talen (a.k.a. Rev. Billy)

Public Advocate Candidates
NYC Council Member Eric Gioia
NYC Council Member Bill de Blasio
Former Public Advocate Mark Green
Norman Siegel
Alex Ablocki

Comptroller Candidates
NYC Council Member Melinda Katz
NYC Council Member David Yassky
NYC Council Member John Liu
NYC Council Member David Weprin

Manhattan District Attorney Candidates
Richard Aborn
Leslie Crocker Snyder
Cyrus Vance, Jr.

The forum will be moderated by NYLHV Executive Director John Phillips.

We look forward to seeing you on May 26!

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20. Update on Podcast Project

Forwarded message from Joseph Puentes:

This time there are two new audio presentations:

1) Dr. Rajendra Pachauri "Meat and Climate Change" I want to thank The Climate Outreach Information Network (COIN) (http://coinet.org.uk
for providing the online presentation by Dr. Pachauri. I'd also like to thank Kathy Bai of Supreme Master TV (http://suprememastertv.com/) for sending me the link to this great message:
http://h2opodcast.com/vsse.html#mcc

2) An oldie but goodie from Environmental Blogger and Meat Eater George Monbiot "Why Vegans Were Right All Along":
http://h2opodcast.com/vsse.html#gm

-------------------------------------------------------

COMING IN TWO WEEKS: We have a great presentation as Rae Sikora the co-founder and director of Plant Peace Daily (http://www.plantpeacedaily.org) interviews Karen Davis of the United Poultry Concerns (http://www.upc-online.org/)

-------------------------------------------------------

The VSSE podcast has a Facebook presence. You can send me your friend suggestions and join the group here: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=40863727638

Please spread the word that the podcast exists share with your "Environmentalist" friends.

-------------------------------------------------------

I am talking to an individual now in the Middle East that is a Vegetarian and we are working toward getting podcasts into the Indian and some Arabic Languages.

The International Languages Vegetarian podcast has a great new podcast by Cristina Sebastian: http://h2opodcast.com/vil/spanish.html#003 If you speak Spanish or have friends that speak Spanish have them give the podcast a listen. Also In English Cristina included this information on an important report we should all read "The Livestock industry and climate. EU makes bad worse": http://www.jensholm.se/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/meat_climate_report.pdf

If you know of people that speak other languages please refer them to me so we can search for existing Vegetarian Podcasts in their language so I can link to them or we can create Audio Messages on Vegetarianism in their language if not exist. You can refer them to: NoMeat@h2opodcast.com

-------------------------------------------------------

I need help with with the VSSE podcast. This podcast is a community effort and the project can definitely benefit with the liberal sharing of "YOUR VOICE." I have material waiting to be read on the Environmental Reasons the world needs to TRANSITION toward a plant based diet so please contact me (NoMeat@h2opodcast.com) so we can discuss how you can read for the podcast. Here is more material on this subject: http://h2opodcast.com/wtp.html

-------------------------------------------------------

Keep in mind that the best way to listen to the audio is to subscribe to the free podcast by downloading a free copy of the iTunes program at: http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/ You would then proceed to insert the VSSE RSS feed (http://h2opodcast.com/rss/vsse.xml)
into iTunes to complete the free subscription process. If you don't feel like doing that just click on the individual links at the http://h2opodcast.com/vsse.html site and listen directly from the internet or right click, save to your computer and upload to your mp3 player.

-------------------------------------------------------

If you would like to be removed from the list please contact me directly at NoMeat@h2opodcast.com

joseph

-------------------------------------------------------

Joseph Puentes
http://h2opodcast.com/vsse.html (Vegan Environmental Solutions Podcast)
http://h2opodcast.com (Environmental Podcast)
http://h2opodcast.blogspot.com/ (Blog for above)
http://PleaseListenToYourMom.com (Women's Peace Podcast)
http://NuestraFamiliaUnida.com (Latin American History Podcast)
http://NuestrosRanchos.com (Jalisco, Zacatecas, and Aguascalientes Genealogy)

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21. Jewish Vegetarian Woman Offers $2,000 for Help Finding Her Soul Mate

Forwarded message from Judith:

In an attempt to step it up as my 40th birthday approaches (Sept. 12th), and since I can't be my own matchmaker, I'm offering the traditional Jewish payment [$2,000] to anyone who can bring me my soul mate.

You may already know him through your work, your synagogue, your kid's school, your neighborhood, club, gym, friends, family, etc. He doesn't have to be local. Be creative with your networking!

Please keep your eyes open for someone who'd be a good fit.

Feel free to forward widely.

You can have him view my Jdate profile "JoyfulVeggie" and, if he's interested, have him call me. 510-418-8813, cell

Bare minimum requirements for my soul mate:

Strong Jewish identity
Must love dogs
Vegetarian, vegan, or veggie-friendly
Liberal politics

Better odds he's my soul mate if he has/is the following:

Loves nature, international travel, water sports
Prefers quiet outdoors to city social scenes
Concern for environmental and wildlife conservation
Skinny and into healthy, organic eating
Light eyes
Long or curly hair
Around my age
Likes/wants/has children

Intellectual who likes to read and see foreign and independent movies & offbeat comedies
Generous and kind
Feels compelled to make the world a better place in some way
Self-employed/entrepreneurial and thinks outside the box
Loves the SF Bay Area - weather, people, attitude, natural beauty

I hope to write you your $2000 check soon!

Thanks, in advance, for any prospects you send my way.

Judith

Judith Gottesman, MSW
Marketing Consultant and Matchmaker
Soul Mates Unlimited - Personalized Matchmaking
http://www.judithgottesman.com

http://www.soulmatesunlimited.com

510.418.8813, cell

PO Box 5712, Berkeley, CA 94705

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